Car Key Replacements
It doesn't matter if it's a simple lock and key keys or a sophisticated fob key, losing one could cost you big time. The best way to avoid this is to always keep a spare in your wallet.
The most affordable option is to contact an auto locksmith if you've lost your keys. A dealership is more expensive but a solid option.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older vehicle that doesn't have key fob technology, your keys are probably mechanical. These standard keys can be made of steel, brass, or a combination between brass and nickel. They are cut with a key duplicator, with the original key placed against one side of the machine, and an unaligned blank key placed next to it to act as a template. The original key is cut with a specially-designed cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chip integrated into the key which is used to unlock and start the car. These chips are usually located inside the key head, but they can also be found in the ignition. The transponder transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer when the key is inserted into the ignition. The computer analyzes the signal and makes sure that it matches with the correct serial number.
This makes it almost impossible for a stolen car to be started without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match the vehicle's signal, it will not start. This is a great benefit to help deter car thefts, as it reduces the likelihood of someone else driving off with your vehicle.
A transponder key costs more than a regular metal key. The transponder is a microchip that is expensive to manufacture and integrate into the car key. Keys like these are usually expensive when purchased from a dealership for cars.
A locksmith can provide much more reliable and affordable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries a large assortment of keys, and can modify the chip to work with your vehicle on-the-spot at a fraction of the price of the dealership.
If you're looking for a transponder replacement key make sure you get multiple quotes. There are a variety of factors that impact the final cost, including the make and model of your vehicle, whether you have any additional features on the key, like a remote key-fob or a remote key-fob, and also where you'll go to copy it.
In the end, you need to evaluate the advantages of a transponder key against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys could be worth it in the long run, in the event that you are concerned about security and safety. Additionally, the majority of modern cars have an immobilizer that will not allow them to start if a key that is not transponder is utilized, so this is another reason to think about.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may sound like something out of the sci-fi genre, laser cut keys are actually quite common and offer an additional layer of protection for vehicles. These keys are made with specialized key cutting machines and are more difficult to duplicate or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys differ from traditional keys that have grooves on one side. They also have slits on both sides. This allows them to be put into the lock cylinder in any direction while still operating it. In the end, they tend to be more robust and durable than conventional keys.
As a bonus they can also be used to unlock some high-security locks. This is because the slits are tooled into a specific depth that is compatible with various codes of the car manufacturers. It is important to get the correct depth as cutting the blade incorrectly can damage the cutting machine, and make the key unable to function after it is placed into the lock.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of laser-cut car keys make them more resistant to copying. In addition some keys are equipped with transponder chips which are unique to the vehicle you're using them on. This means that even if a person makes a copy of your car's key with a transponder chip they will not be in a position to start your car.
Although these additional layers of security might make a laser-cut car key more expensive than other kinds, the fact is that they're still cheaper than buying a new one from your dealer. Additionally, locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys faster than a car dealership.
A laser-cut car key's quality can make a big difference. The wrong type of blade could cause damage to the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder, leaving you with an expensive repair bill. This is why it's important to get your laser cut car key from a trusted supplier that sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a wide selection of replacement car key FOB keys that fit more than 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also offer a 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 dealership!
Remote Keys
Not too long ago having lost or misplaced keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could call an expert locksmith, get an alternative and leave. Nowadays, however, cars are much more technologically advanced and keys are more difficult to replace and even more difficult for thieves to duplicate. This means that when you lose your car keys it could be more expensive than ever to replace it.
Depending on the type of key that you own, the cost to replace it can vary. For traditional keys you can get an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store, or you can hire an automotive locksmith to come to you and create a key on the spot.
If you have an electronic key, a transponder key with switchblade, or a transponder with remote start, you will need to visit your dealership to get it replaced. auto car key replacement can be very expensive, and it may take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer, which will delay your getting back on the road.
Your car key might stop working for no apparent cause as do other electronic devices. This is often due to extreme cold or heat however it could be due to a bad battery or water in the keyfob after rain. It's a good idea to reset your car key prior to calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it's not responding.
It is important to know that your key fob can only function if you're within the reach of the vehicle. This is why it's crucial to keep your key fob close to you at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you're certain that you can return it promptly.
The most common way to lose the car key is through misplacing it or dropping it. This could cause the key to break or get stuck in the lock. It's an ideal idea to have an extra.