Car Key Replacements
Losing a key can be costly, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a high-end key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep one in your wallet.
The cheapest solution is to contact an auto locksmith if you lose your key. A dealership may be more expensive, but it is an excellent option.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older vehicle that doesn't have key fob technology, your car keys are probably mechanical. The standard keys are made of brass, steel or a mix of brass and nickel. The keys are cut using a key duplicator that utilizes a blank key as a template and an original key on the opposite side of the machine. The original key is cut using a special cutter to create the duplicate.
Transponder Keys
The majority of modern cars come with a transponder chip built into the key which is used to unlock and start the car. The chips are typically placed in the head of the key, but can also be located in the ignition. The transponder transmits signals to the computer in the car when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer then checks the signal to make sure it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it nearly impossible for a stolen car to start without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match the vehicle won't start. This is a huge benefit that can discourage car thieves since the chances of someone else attempting to start and then driving away with your car are greatly decreased.
Transponder keys cost more than a flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder has a tiny microchip that isn't cheap to make and put into the car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars purchased from a dealership.
A locksmith can provide less expensive and more secure transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries many of these keys and can even reprogram the chip to work with your vehicle on the spot at a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
Make sure to compare quotes when shopping for the replacement transponder keys. There are a variety of variables that affect the final cost, including the make and model of your vehicle, whether you have additional features on your key, such as a remote key-fob and the location you choose to copy it.
Ultimately, you should weigh the benefits of a transponder key versus the cost and ease of use. If you are concerned about safety and security, then a transponder keys might be worth the investment in the long run. Additionally, many modern vehicles have an immobilizer that will not allow them to start if a non-transponder key is utilized which is another factor to consider.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys can sound like something from a sci-fi flick However, they are actually quite common. They provide an additional layer of security for cars. These keys are created with specialized key cutting machines and are much harder to copy or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side the laser cut keys have slits cut on both sides. This allows keys to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either direction, and still operate. They are therefore more durable and thicker than conventional keys.
They are also employed as a bonus feature to open certain high-security locks. This is due to the slits being tooled into a specific depth that is compatible with different car manufacturers' codes. Getting remote control car key replacement is crucial since a wrongly cut blade could damage the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not functioning shortly after it is inserted into the lock cylinder.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of laser-cut car keys make them more resistant to being copied. Furthermore, many of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to the vehicle you're using them on. This means that even if a person makes a copy of your car key with transponder chips it won't be capable of starting your car.
Laser cut car keys may be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from the dealership. Locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys faster than car dealerships.
A laser-cut car key's quality can make a big difference. The wrong type of blade could easily damage the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder, leaving you with an expensive repair cost. It is crucial to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith for autos who sells the keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a large range of replacement car key FOB keys that fit more than 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on car fob replacements without going to an auto dealer!
Remote Keys
In the past the possibility of losing or misplacing keys to your car wasn't a huge deal. You could call an locksmith, receive a replacement and still drive away. Today, however, cars are much more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys can be harder to replace and harder for thieves to copy. This means that when you lose your car keys it could be more expensive than before to get it replaced.
Depending on the type of key you own, the cost to replace it can vary. You can have an old-fashioned key for $10 at a local hardware store or hire an automotive locksmith who will come to you to create it on the spot.
If you own a smart key, a transponder key with a switchblade, or a transponder key that has remote start, you will be required to visit your local dealer to have it replaced. It can be very expensive and may take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer which could delay getting back on the road.
Your car key can not function for no apparent reason as with other electronic devices. Often, this is due to extreme heat or cold, but it can be due to a bad battery or key fob due to rain or simply wearing out over time. It's a good idea to reset your car keys prior to calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it is not responding.
It's also important to remember that your key fob will only function when it's within reach of the vehicle. It is essential to keep your key fob with you, and never let it go out of your pocket unless necessary.
The most common way to lose keys to cars is misplacing it or dropping it. In some cases this could cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and this is why it's an ideal idea to have a spare on hand at all times.