Car Key Replacements
Whether it's a simple lock-and-key keys or a sophisticated fob key, losing one can be costly. It's recommended to keep an extra key in your wallet.
If you do lose keys, the most affordable solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership could be more expensive, but it's an option worth considering.
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 brass, steel, or a combination between brass and nickel. Keys are cut using the key duplicator, which utilizes the blank key as a template, and an original key placed on the opposite side of the machine. The original key is then cut with a specialized cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are integrated into the majority of modern cars' keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and start it. The chips are located in the ignition, or the key head. When the key is turned in the ignition, the transponder transmits a signal that is received by the computer system in the car. The computer then examines the signal to make sure it is in line with the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for a stolen car to be started without owner's keys. If the signal does not match, the car will not start and remain locked. car key replacement is a huge benefit to help deter car thefts, as it decreases the chance of someone else driving off with your vehicle.
Transponder keys cost more than a standard metal key. The transponder is a chip that is expensive to create and install into the car key. Typically, these kinds of keys can cost hundreds of dollars if purchased from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer much less expensive and reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has an extensive selection of these keys and can program the chip right on the spot to function with your vehicle at only a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
If you're looking for a transponder key replacement ensure you request multiple estimates. The final cost is determined by many factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, the extra features you can get on the key (such as a remote-control key fob) and even the location where you choose to copy it.
Ultimately, you should evaluate the advantages of a transponder key versus the cost and ease of use. If you value safety and security, then a transponder key may be worth the investment in the long in the long run. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible will not allow the vehicle to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may sound like something out of an sci-fi film Laser cut keys are in fact quite common and provide an additional security measure for cars. These keys are created with special key cutting machines and are harder to duplicate or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys are different from traditional keys that have grooves on one side. They also have slits on both sides. This allows keys to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either direction while still operating it. They are therefore more durable and stronger than traditional keys.
In addition they can be used to open certain high-security locks. This is due to the slits being tooled into a specific depth that matches with the various codes of the car manufacturers. It is important to get the right depth, as cutting the blade incorrectly can cause damage to the cutting machine and cause the key not to function once it is placed into the lock.
The increased thickness and unique slits on laser cut car keys make them less susceptible to being copied or taken. In addition, many of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to your car. This means that even if a person makes a copy of your car key using a transponder chip it won't be able to start your vehicle.
Keys for cars cut with lasers may be more expensive however, they are cheaper than buying a replacement from the dealership. Locksmiths can often cut these keys faster than the car dealership.
The quality of a laser-cut car key can make a big difference. The wrong type of blade can easily harm the machine that cuts keys or your lock cylinder, leading to a large repair bill. It's vital to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith that sells the keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of replacement car key fob keys for more than 250 different makes and models of vehicles, in addition to 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 having to go to a dealership!
Remote Keys
Not too long ago having lost or misplaced your car keys was not an issue. You could call an locksmith, receive an alternate and then leave. Today's cars are more advanced in technology and keys that are compatible with them can be harder to replace. They also are more difficult for thieves to copy. This means that if you lose your car key it could be more expensive than ever to get it replaced.
Depending on the type of key you own, the cost to replace it can vary. For keys that are traditional you can have a copy made for about $10 at a hardware store or you can get an automotive locksmith to come to you and create a key on the spot.
If you own an electronic key, transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder with remote start, you'll be required to visit your local dealer to have it replaced. This can be quite costly and could take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer which could delay getting back on the road.
Like 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 can also be caused from a bad battery or water in the keyfob after rain. If you find that your car key isn't responding, you should consider trying to reset it before contacting an auto locksmith.
You should also know that your key fob can only function if you are within the range of the vehicle. This is why it's crucial to keep your key fob close to you at all times, and never let it go out of your pocket unless you're sure that you'll be able to return it promptly.
The most frequent method of losing the car key is through misplacing it or dropping it. This can result in the key breaking or get stuck in the lock. It's an ideal idea to have a spare.