Finding a Replacement Car Key Near Me

The loss of your car keys lost replacement keys can be a stressful experience. Many AutoZone stores offer key cutting services that will assist you in getting back on the road quickly.

You can buy replacements for traditional metal keys at any AutoZone location for less than $10. For more advanced options such as keys fobs, a switchblade key or transponder chip key, you'll need to visit a dealer.

Traditional Keys

Cars with traditional keys come with only one metal key that has a shaft and head that fit into the lock. These keys have been used as the standard for decades, and while they aren't as convenient as newer fobs or push-to-start systems, they still provide a number of advantages over other choices. They are simple to use, affordable, and offer a physical security measure. The traditional keys are durable and can last longer than a vehicle.

The majority of AutoZone stores can replace a standard key. The process is simple. Bring your current key to the store and an associate will match it up with a blank key that's specifically made for your car's year, make, and model. Then, the key cutting machine will trace the initial contours of the key and make a duplicate of exactly the same form. It only takes about a minute and is less expensive than purchasing a replacement at an auto dealer.

Some people order traditional keys online to receive them as fast as they can. This is a great option if you do not have the time for an auto locksmith or don't want to shell out for a dealer replacement key. This method may cost more than hiring a locksmith, especially if the key you need is a chip.

A few downsides to traditional keys include the fact that they're more difficult to use when you're carrying groceries, luggage, or kids with both hands. If they're not properly placed in your keychain or pocket they are likely to get lost. They aren't as durable as some other kinds of keys and don't come with integrated tracking devices to aid in finding them should they're lost.

If you lose your traditional car key, you'll require a professional automotive technician to install a brand new ignition. This procedure may take a bit longer than a typical key replacement, however it will save you money in the end by preventing you from needing to hire a locksmith to replace your car key.

Key Fobs

Not so long ago when keys went missing from cars, it wasn't really a big deal. Locksmiths would charge a small fee to replace your key but it wasn't a big deal. Modern cars are equipped with sophisticated technology and replacing a lost key could be a major problem.

Key fobs, which are small plastic devices, can secure and unlock your car with the push of one button. It can also deactivate the alarm, or arm it, and also open the trunk. They work by transmitting signals via radio waves to the key reader located in the ignition of your vehicle that then tells the vehicle to open its doors and begin the engine. Fobs can also be used to control home security systems.

If you have an electronic fob, it's important to have an extra key on hand. You will avoid the hassle and cost of paying a dealer to cut and program a key, which could cost you more than $200. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to see if it covers replacing fobs for keys that have been lost if you have a newer car.

Another option to save money is to buy an aftermarket fob online. It is possible to find a basic key fob for around half the price you'd pay at a dealership. But, you'll need to cut it and have it programmed by a locksmith or a company that provides the service.

Many locksmiths charge per hour to cut and program a new fob. The cost of replacement car key can vary based on the type of car you own, the model year, and the key fob's features. Be aware that smart fobs could be more difficult to program. You'll need to consult the owner's manual for the particular vehicle and follow the instructions for resetting them.

A key fob is also beneficial for apartments that don't have locks on all doors. Fobs can be used to open the door, so you don't have to fret about being locked out while carrying your groceries in.

Smart Keys

A smart key is a microchip only the car system is able to recognize. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition it opens the doors and begins the engine. This type of key has many benefits, including added security and convenience. However, there are a few points to be aware of prior to purchasing one.

Most newer cars don't allow the use of traditional keys. Instead, they require an electronic key fob or smart key to unlock and start the remote car key replacement. Smart keys have additional security features that help prevent theft. They are more difficult to steal for thieves with a technological edge because they send a new frequency signal every when the door or trunk is shut. If the battery for the smart key runs out, the car can still be operated by a backup ignition key.

Another benefit of a smart key is the capability to lock the car remotely with the app on a smartphone. This can be helpful if you have to leave your mobile car key replacement in the garage unattended for instance, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or out for lunch. However, it is important to remember that in the event that you lose your phone, it won't be able to unlock or start your vehicle.

If you lose your smart key contact roadside assistance for an appointment to take it into the dealership so they will be able to replace it. Locksmiths can typically create a traditional key but replacing a transponder or smart key requires specialized equipment that the dealership will have to supply.

Locksmiths can copy a traditional key, but if the key is not properly programmed, it might not function properly. A locksmith can provide the programming service, but in the event that you don't have the original, you'll need to get it towed to the dealer so they can pair the new chip to your vehicle. It could take a while in certain instances. Be ready to wait if you've lost your smart key.

Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance is an added-on insurance plan that you can purchase through your car insurance provider or through third-party companies like credit card companies and AARP. It covers a variety of services like towing, fuel delivery, and locksmith services. It could also cover the expenses of a rental vehicle or hotel stay in the event that your vehicle is damaged.

If you're locked out of your car, the kind of key you've got will affect the ease of you to get back in. For example traditional keys are simple to duplicate and can be done by a majority of locksmiths on the spot. If your vehicle has laser cut, programmable smart key that has to be programmed by the dealer, it will take longer and cost more to have a new key installed to your vehicle.

It's difficult to know the moment when your car keys will be lost or damaged however it's a good idea to invest in a couple of spare sets to ensure you have one on hand. You can also purchase a Bluetooth key tracker to connect to your keys. It emits a signature that you can connect to an app on your smartphone to track your keys.

You may need to replace your mechanical key at some point, whether it's an older model with an ob-lock or a newer one with a keyfob. The teeth of your car key may start to wear down, for instance, or you might find that keys only open the doors a tiny bit when you turn it. If you notice that the teeth of your car key are beginning to wear down, it's an ideal idea to contact roadside assistance to replace the key.

Many auto insurance companies include roadside assistance as part of their comprehensive policies. Having this coverage can save you the cost of replacing a key or fob in the case of loss or theft However, it's important to weigh the financial savings against your insurance deductible and the length of time it will take to submit an insurance claim.