Car Key Replacements
If it's a basic lock-and-key key or a more sophisticated fob key, losing it could cost you big time. It's best to keep one spare key in your wallet.
If you do lose keys, the cheapest alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. Dealerships are more expensive, but is a great option.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys are likely to be mechanical if you have an old vehicle that doesn't have key fobs. The standard keys are made from metal like steel, brass or a mixture of nickel and brass. The keys are cut using a key duplicator that makes use of a blank key as a template and an original key against the other side of the machine. The original key is cut with a specially-designed cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are incorporated into the majority of modern cars keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and then start it. These chips are usually located in the key head but they can also be found in the ignition. When the key is turned on in the ignition, the transponder sends an electronic signal that is picked up by the car's computer system. The computer analyzes the signal and ensures it matches the correct serial number.
It's almost impossible to start an automobile without the owner's key. If the signal does not match, the vehicle will not start. This is a huge benefit to deter car thefts as it decreases the chance of someone else stealing your car.
A transponder key is more expensive than a regular metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is costly to produce and install into a car key. Keys like these are usually expensive when purchased from a dealership for cars.
A locksmith can provide cheaper and more reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has an extensive selection of these keys and will re-program the chip right on the spot to work with your vehicle at a fraction the cost of the dealership.
Be sure to compare prices when you are looking for a replacement transponder key. There are a variety of factors that influence the final price, such as the model and make of your car, if you have any extra features on the key such as a remote key fob, and even where you'll go to copy it.
In the end, you need to weigh the benefits of a transponder versus the cost and the convenience. Transponder keys might be worth it in the long term in the event that you are concerned about safety and protection. Additionally, the majority of modern cars come with an immobilizer that will not allow them to start if a key that is not transponder is used which is another reason to think about.
Laser-Cut Keys
While they might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, laser cut keys are actually quite common and offer 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.
Laser cut car keys differ from traditional keys with grooves on one side. They also have two slits on the sides. They can be inserted into the lock cylinder either way and still work. This means that they tend to be more sturdy and stronger than standard keys.
They are also employed as a bonus feature to open high-security locks. This is because the slits are fitted into a certain depth that matches with the various codes of the car manufacturers. It is crucial to choose the right depth, as cutting the blade incorrectly can damage the cutting machine, and make the key unable to function once it is put into the lock.
The increased thickness and unique slits in laser cut car keys make them less prone to being copied or picked. Many of these keys also have a transponder chip that is unique to your vehicle. This means that even if someone makes a copy of your car key with a transponder chip it won't be capable of starting your vehicle.
Laser-cut car keys might be more expensive however they are cheaper than buying a replacement from a dealership. Locksmiths can often cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.
The quality of a laser-cut car key can make a significant difference. A bad blade can easily harm the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder, leading to a large repair cost. It's vital to purchase your laser-cut car keys from an auto locksmith who sells the keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a large selection of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to see how we can help you save money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of going to a dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a big issue. You could contact a locksmith, get an alternative and drive away. Nowadays, however, cars are a lot more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys are harder to replace and harder for thieves to copy. key replacement car becoming more expensive to replace a lost car key.
Depending on the type of key that you have, the price to replace it can vary. You can get a traditional key made for $10 at a local hardware store or employ an automotive locksmith who will come to you to create it right there.
You'll have to take your smart key, transponder with switchblade or transponder that has remote start to the dealership to be repaired. It can be very expensive and may take a while to obtain the new key from the manufacturer which will delay your getting back on the road.
Your car key might not function for no apparent reason as do other electronic devices. Often, this is due to extreme cold or heat however, it could also be caused by an unsatisfactory battery or key fob due to rain or simply deteriorating over time. If you notice that your car key isn't longer responding, it's worth trying to reset it first before contacting an auto locksmith.
It is important to know that your key fob can only function if you are within the reach of the vehicle. It is essential to keep your key fob with you and never take it out of your pocket unless absolutely required.
The majority of people lose their car keys when they drop them or lose them. This can sometimes cause the key to break or become stuck in the lock. It's recommended to always have an extra.