Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be costly, whether it's a standard lock-and-key or a high-end key fob. It's ideal to keep one spare key in your wallet.
If you do lose keys, the cheapest alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. A dealership may be more expensive, but it is an option worth considering.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older vehicle that doesn't have key fob technology, your car keys are likely mechanical. Keys that are standard can be made of brass, steel or a mix of nickel and brass. The keys are cut on a key duplicator that utilizes the blank key as a template and an original key placed on the other side of the machine. The original key is cut with a specific cutter to create a copy.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are incorporated into most newer cars' keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and begin it. The chips are typically placed in the head of the key, but they can also be found in the ignition. When the key is turned in the ignition, the transponder sends a signal that is received by the computer system of the car. The computer then checks the signal to verify that it matches with the correct serial number.
It is almost impossible to start a car without the owner's keys. If the signal isn't compatible the car's signal, it won't start and will remain locked. This is a huge benefit to deter car thefts as it lowers the risk of someone else driving off with your vehicle.
A transponder key is more expensive than a standard metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is costly to produce and install into a car key. The keys are usually expensive when purchased from a dealership for cars.
A locksmith can offer much cheaper and more reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys and can reprogram the chip on the spot to function with your car at less than the dealership.
Be sure to check out quotes when shopping for an alternative transponder key. The final cost will be influenced by many factors, including the model and make of your vehicle, the additional features you have on the key (such as a remote control key-fob) and the location you decide to copy it.
In the end, it is important consider the advantages of a transponder versus the expense and convenience. Transponder keys could be beneficial in the long run, in the event that you are concerned about safety and protection. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible will not allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may appear like something from a sci-fi movie laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an additional layer of security for vehicles. Keys that require special key cutting equipment to make and are much harder for thieves to copy or pick than traditional cut keys.
Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side the laser cut keys have slits tooled on both sides. They can be inserted in the lock cylinder any way and still work. They are therefore more durable and robust than traditional keys.
As a bonus they can be used to open some high-security locks. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that matches with the various codes used by car manufacturers. It is important to get the correct depth as cutting the blade incorrectly can damage the cutting machine, and make the key unable to function after it is put into the lock.
The increased thickness and unique slits on laser cut car keys are less vulnerable to being copied or picked. Furthermore, many of these keys are equipped with transponder chips which are unique to the vehicle you're using them on. This means that if someone copies your car key even if it has a transponder chip it will not be able start your vehicle.
Although these extra layers of security could make a laser-cut car key more expensive than other kinds however, the reality is that they're still much less than getting a new replacement from your dealership. Locksmiths are able to cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.
A car key that is laser cut's quality can make a huge difference. The wrong blade can easily cause damage to your key cutting machine or lock cylinder, leaving you with a large repair bill. It is crucial to purchase your laser-cut car keys from an auto locksmith who sells the keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has an extensive range of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different models and brands of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today to see how we can help you save money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealership!
Remote Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a huge issue. Contact a locksmith for a new key and leave. Modern cars are more advanced in technology and keys that are compatible with them may be more difficult to replace. They also are harder for thieves copy. This means that if you lose your car keys it could be more expensive than before to replace it.
Depending on the type of key you have, the cost to replace it can vary. You can get a traditional key made for $10 at a local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will visit you and make the key right there.
You will need to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade, or transponder with remote start to the dealer to be repaired. This can be expensive, and you may have to wait a long time for the manufacturer to 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 cold or heat however it could also be caused from a bad battery or water in the keyfob from rain. If you find that your car key is no responding, it's worth trying to reset it first before calling an auto locksmith.
It's also important to understand that your key fob can only function only if it's within the range of your vehicle. It is essential to keep your key fob with you and never let it go out of your pocket unless it's absolutely essential.
car key replacements lose their keys to their cars by dropping them or misplacing them. In some instances, this can cause it to break or get stuck in the lock, which is why it's a good idea to have an extra available at all times.