Car Key Replacements
If it's a basic lock-and-key key or a more sophisticated fob key, losing one could cost you big time. The best way to avoid this is to always keep one in your wallet.
The cheapest option is to call an auto locksmith in the event that you've lost your keys. Dealerships are more expensive but a solid alternative.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older vehicle that doesn't use key fob technology, your keys are likely mechanical. These standard keys can be made of steel, brass, or a combination between nickel and brass. They're cut using the key duplicator machine using an original key set against one side of the machine and an unaligned blank key placed next to it to act as an example. The original key is cut using an specialized cutter to make an exact duplicate.
Transponder Keys
The majority of modern cars come with a transponder chip built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the car. These chips can be found in the ignition or the key head. When the key is turned in the ignition, the transponder emits a signal that is received by the car's computer system. The computer then checks the signal to make sure it matches with the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for a stolen car to be started without the owner's keys. If the signal isn't compatible the car won't start and will remain locked. This is an enormous benefit that can deter car thieves as the odds of someone else attempting to start and then driving away with your car are significantly reduced.
A transponder key is more expensive than a flat metal key. The transponder is a chip that is costly to produce and install into the car key. Typically, these types of keys can cost hundreds of dollars if purchased from a dealership.
A locksmith can provide cheaper and more secure transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys and can reprogram the chip on the spot, allowing it to work with your vehicle at a fraction the cost of the dealership.
When shopping around for a transponder key replacement make sure you get multiple estimates. There are a variety of factors that influence the final price, including the make and model of your car, if you have additional features on the key, like a remote key-fob or a remote key-fob, and also the location you choose to get it copied.
In the end, you have consider the advantages of a transponder in comparison to the expense and convenience. If you prioritize security and safety, then a transponder key might be worth the investment in the long term. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible will not allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys may sound like something from a sci-fi movie, but they are quite common. They provide an added layer of security for cars. These keys are made with specially designed key cutting equipment and are more difficult to copy or pick for thieves 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 put into the lock cylinder in any way and still function. In the end, they tend to be sturdy and stronger than standard keys.
As a bonus, they can also be used to open certain high-security locks. The slits are tooled to a particular depth, which matches the codes of the different car manufacturers. Getting the right depth is vital since a wrongly cut blade could damage the key cutting machine and result in the key not working immediately after being inserted into the lock cylinder.
The increased thickness and unique slits in car keys cut with lasers make them less susceptible to being copied or taken. In addition, many of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that even if someone makes a copy of your car key with transponder chips it won't be in a position to start your car.
experienced -cut car keys might be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from the dealership. Locksmiths often cut keys faster than car dealerships.
A car key that is laser cut's quality can make a huge difference. The wrong blade could harm the key cutting machine or lock cylinder, leaving you with a costly repair bill. This is the reason it's essential to purchase your laser cut car key from a reliable supplier who sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has an extensive choice of car key replacement FOB keys that fit more than 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also offer a laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today to see how we can save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of having to go to a dealership!
Remote Keys
Not too long ago having lost or misplaced your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could call an expert locksmith, get a replacement and still leave. The cars of today are more technologically advanced and keys that go with them are more difficult to replace. They can also be difficult to steal. It is now more expensive to replace the key to a car that has been lost.
The cost of replacing a key will differ according to the kind. You can purchase a traditional key made for $10 at a local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will visit you to create it immediately.
If you own an intelligent key, a transponder key with a switchblade, or a transponder with remote start, you'll have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This can be expensive, and you may have to wait for a long time before the manufacturer can send you the new key.
Sometimes, as with any other electronic device, your car key will cease to function for no apparent reason. It is usually due to extreme heat or cold however it could be due to an ineffective battery or the presence of water in the keyfob after rain. It's worth resetting your car key before calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it's not responding.
You should also be aware that your keyfob will only function if you're within the range 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 can return it swiftly.
Most people lose their keys to their cars by dropping them or misplacing them. In some instances this could cause it to break or get stuck in the lock and this is why it's recommended to keep an extra key on hand at all times.