Car Key Replacements
It doesn't matter if it's a simple lock and key key or a sophisticated fob key, losing one can cost you a lot. It's ideal to keep an extra key in your wallet.
If vehicle key replacement 've lost keys, the cheapest solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership can be more expensive, but is a great alternative.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys are likely to be mechanical if you have an older vehicle that does not use key fobs. Keys of this type are made from metal like steel, brass or a combination of nickel and brass. Keys are cut using a key duplicator, which uses a blank key as a template and an original key against the other side of the machine. The original key is cut using a specific cutter to create an exact duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chips built into the key which is used to unlock and start the vehicle. These chips are usually placed in the key head but can also be located in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder sends an electronic signal that is picked up by the car's computer system. The computer then analyzes the signal to make sure it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for a stolen vehicle to start without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match the car's signal, it won't start and will remain locked. This is an enormous benefit that helps to deter car thieves as the chances of someone else starting and driving off with your vehicle are drastically diminished.
A transponder key costs more than a flat metal key. This is because the transponder has a tiny microchip that isn't cheap to produce and install in a car key. Keys like these are usually expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can provide less expensive and secure transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive selection of keys, and can reprogramme the chip to work with your car on-the-spot for a fraction of the cost of a dealership.
Be sure to check out estimates when looking for the replacement transponder keys. The final cost is determined by a variety of factors, including the model and make of your vehicle, the additional features that you can find 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 must weigh the benefits of a transponder key against the cost and ease of use. Transponder keys might be beneficial in the long run, when you value safety and protection. Additionally, many modern cars have an immobilizer that will not allow them to start if a non-transponder keys is used which is another aspect to take into consideration.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys might sound like something from a sci-fi flick, but they are fairly common. They provide an added layer of security to cars. These keys require special key cutting equipment and are much harder for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys differ from traditional keys, which have grooves on one side. They also have slits on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder either way, and they still function. As a result, they tend to be sturdy and stronger than standard keys.
As a bonus, they can also be used to unlock some locks with high security. The slits are made to a specific depth that matches the codes of various automobile manufacturers. It is essential to select the right depth, as an incorrectly-cut blade can damage the cutting machine, and cause the key to not to function once it has been put into the lock.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of the car keys laser-cut make them more resistant to being copied. Furthermore the majority of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that when someone copies your car key even if it's equipped with transponder chips, they will not be able start your vehicle.
Laser cut car keys may be more expensive however, they are cheaper than buying a replacement from the dealership. Locksmiths are able to cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the quality of a laser-cut car key could make all the difference. A bad blade could harm the key cutting machine or lock cylinder, leaving you with a large repair cost. It is essential to purchase your laser-cut car keys from an auto locksmith 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 keys. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on replacement car fobs, without having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
In the past having lost or misplaced keys to your car wasn't an issue. Get a locksmith on the phone to get a new key and drive away. Today, however, cars are much more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys are harder to replace and harder for thieves to copy. It is now more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.
Depending on the type of key that you have, the price to replace it can vary. For keys that are traditional you can get an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store or you can get an automotive locksmith to visit you and make a copy on the spot.
You will need to take your smart key, transponder with switchblade, or transponder with remote start to the dealership to be replaced. This can be very costly and could take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer, which will delay your getting back on the road.
The car key may cease to function without a clear cause as do other electronic devices. Most often, this happens due to extreme cold or heat but it could also be caused by a bad battery or water in the key fob due to rain or just wearing out over time. It is recommended to reset your car key prior to calling an auto locksmith if you find that it is not responding.
You should also know that your key fob will only work if you're within the reach of the vehicle. It's essential to always keep your key fob with you, and never take it out of your pocket unless it's absolutely required.
The most frequent way to lose a car key is by not locating it or dropping it. In some cases, this can cause it to break or be stuck in the lock, which is why it's always an ideal idea to have a spare available at all times.