Car Key Replacements
Losing a key can be costly, regardless of whether it's a standard lock-and-key or a high-end key fob. It's recommended to keep one spare key in your wallet.
The most affordable option is to contact an auto locksmith if you've lost your keys. A dealership is more expensive, but it is a good alternative.
Mechanical Keys
The keys to your car are likely to be mechanical if you have an old vehicle that doesn't have key fobs. These standard keys are made of metal, like steel, brass or a mixture of brass and nickel. They are cut using the key duplicator machine with an original key positioned against one side of the machine, and a blank key aligned to it to function as the template. The original key is cut using an specialized cutter to make a copy.
Transponder Keys
The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chips built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the vehicle. These chips are usually placed in the key head but they can also be found in the ignition. The transponder sends signals to the computer of the car when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer analyzes the signal and makes sure that it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it almost impossible for a stolen vehicle to be started without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match, the car will not start and will remain locked. This is a huge advantage to prevent car thefts as it decreases the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle.
The disadvantage of transponder keys is that it is more expensive than a conventional flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder contains a small microchip that isn't cheap to make and put into the car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a car dealer.
A locksmith can offer more reliable and cheaper transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys and can re-program the chip on the spot to work with your vehicle at only a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
If you're looking for a transponder key replacement make sure you get multiple quotes. There are car key replacements of factors that impact the final price, such as the model and make of your car, whether you have any additional features on the key, like a remote key-fob and where you'll go to copy it.
In the end, it is important to weigh the advantages of a transponder against the expense and convenience. If you value security and safety, then a transponder keys could be worth the cost in the long run. A non-transponder car key won't allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
While they might appear like something from the sci-fi genre Laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an additional layer of protection for cars. They require specialized key cutting equipment to make and are much more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.
Contrary to traditional keys, which have grooves cut into one side laser cut car keys have slits cut on both sides. They can be inserted into the lock cylinder any way, and they still function. They are, therefore, more durable and thicker than conventional keys.
Additionally, they can also be used to open some high-security locks. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that is compatible with different car manufacturers' codes. It is essential to select the right depth, as an incorrectly-cut blade can damage the cutting machine, and cause the key to not to work after it has been inserted into the lock.
The distinctive slits and greater thickness of the car keys laser-cut make them more resistant to copying. Some keys have a transponder chip that is specific to your car. This means that even if someone makes a copy of your car's key with transponder chips, they won't be in a position to start your car.
Keys for cars cut with lasers may be more expensive, but they are still less expensive than buying a new one from the dealership. Locksmiths are able to cut keys faster than dealerships for cars.
The quality of a laser-cut car key can make a significant difference. The wrong type of blade could easily damage the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder, which could result in a costly repair cost. This is why it's crucial to purchase your laser-cut car key from a reputable company that sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different makes and models of automobiles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder key replacements. Visit us today to see how we can save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing your car key or losing it was not a big issue. Contact a locksmith for a new key and drive away. Modern cars are more technologically advanced and keys that go with them are more difficult to replace. They also are harder for thieves copy. This means that if you lose your car key it could be more costly than ever to replace it.
The cost of replacing a key will differ according to the kind. For keys that are traditional you can have a copy made for about $10 at a hardware store, or you can get an locksmith from the automotive industry to visit you and make one right there.
You will need to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade or transponder with remote start to the dealership to be repaired. This can be expensive, and you might need to wait a long time before the manufacturer can send you the new key.
Your car key might cease to function without a clear cause as do other electronic devices. It is usually due to extreme heat or cold however it could also be due to a bad battery or water in the keyfob following rain. If you find that your car key isn't responding, it's worth trying to reset it first before calling an auto locksmith.
You should also be aware that your keyfob will only work if you're within the reach of the vehicle. This is why it's crucial to keep your key fob on you at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you are certain that you'll be able to return it swiftly.
A majority of people lose their car keys in the event of dropping them or misplacing them. In some cases this could cause it to break or be stuck in the lock, which is why it's always recommended to keep an extra available at all times.