Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be expensive, whether it's an ordinary lock-and-key or a more sophisticated key fob. It's recommended to keep one spare key in your wallet.
If you do lose a key, the cheapest option is to find an auto locksmith. Dealerships are more expensive, but it is a good alternative.
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 steel, brass, or a combination between nickel and brass. They are cut with the key duplicator machine using an original key set against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned to it to serve as the template. The original key is cut using a specific cutter to create the duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chips built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the vehicle. These chips can be found in the ignition, or the key head. The transponder sends signals to the computer in the car when the key is turned into the ignition. The computer then checks the signal to verify that it is in line with the correct serial number.
It's almost impossible to start cars without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match the car's signal, it won't start and remain locked. This is a huge benefit to help deter car thefts as it lowers the risk of someone else stealing your vehicle.
The downside of a transponder key is that it is more expensive than a traditional flat metal key. The transponder is a chip that is costly to produce and put into a car key. The keys are usually expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can provide much more reliable and cheaper transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries a large assortment of these keys and can even reprogramme the chip to work with your car on-the-spot for a fraction of price of the dealership.
If you're looking for a transponder key replacement ensure you request multiple quotes. The final cost will be influenced by many factors, including the model and make of your vehicle, any additional features you have on the key (such as a remote control key-fob) and even the location where you choose to have it copied.
In the end, you need to evaluate the advantages of a transponder key against the cost and convenience. If you value safety and security, then a transponder key might be worth the investment in the long term. In addition, most modern cars come with an immobilizer that won't allow the car to start if a non-transponder key is used which is another factor to consider.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may seem like something from the sci-fi genre laser cut keys are in fact quite common and provide an extra security measure for vehicles. These keys are made with special key cutting machines and are more difficult to copy or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys are different from traditional keys with grooves on one side. They also have cut-outs on both sides. This allows them to be put into the lock cylinder either direction and still operate it. They are thus more durable and stronger than conventional keys.
They are also utilized as a bonus to open high-security locks. The slits are tooled to a particular depth, which matches the codes of the different car manufacturers. It is crucial to choose the correct depth since a blade that is cut incorrectly could harm the cutting machine and cause the key to not to function after it has been placed into the lock.
The distinctive slits and greater thickness of car keys cut with lasers make them more resistant to being copied. Furthermore some keys have transponder chips that are unique to your car. This means that even if someone creates a duplicate of your car's key with a transponder chip it won't be able to start your vehicle.
Although these additional layers of security could make a laser-cut car key more expensive than other kinds however, the reality is that they're still cheaper than buying a new one from your dealer. Locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.
A car key that is laser cut's quality can make a huge difference. A bad blade could damage the key cutting machine or lock cylinder and leave you with a huge repair cost. It is essential to purchase your laser-cut car keys from a locksmith that sells keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different models and makes of vehicles, in addition to sidewinder keys laser-cut. Visit us today and discover how we can save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could call an expert locksmith, get an alternative and leave. keys replacement are more advanced in technology and keys that are compatible with them may be more difficult to replace. They also are more difficult for thieves to copy. This means that if you lose your car keys it could be more costly than ever to get it replaced.
The cost of replacing a key can vary depending on the type. For keys that are traditional, you can have an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store or you can hire an automotive locksmith to visit you and make a copy right there.
You'll have to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade or transponder with remote start to the dealer to be replaced. It can be costly and you may have to wait a long period of time before the manufacturer will send you an alternative key.
Sometimes, as with any other electronic device the car key can stop working for no apparent reason. It is usually due to extreme heat or cold however it could be due to an unsatisfactory battery or water in the keyfob following rain. It's worth resetting your car key before calling an auto locksmith if you find that it's not responding.
You should also be aware that your key fob can only function if you're within the reach of the vehicle. This is the reason it's essential to keep your key fob close to you at all times and never let it go out of your pocket unless you're certain that you'll be able to return it quickly.
Most people lose their keys to their cars by dropping them or misplacing keys. In some instances this could cause it to break or become stuck in the lock, which is why it's recommended to keep an extra in your possession at all times.