Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key could be expensive, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a sophisticated key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep an extra key in your wallet.
The cheapest solution is to call an auto locksmith in the event that you have lost your key. A dealership may be more expensive, but it's an option worth considering.
Mechanical Keys
The keys to your car are likely to be mechanical if you have an older vehicle that does not use key fobs. These standard keys are made of metal, like brass, steel or a combination of nickel and brass. They're cut using the key duplicator machine using an original key set against one side of the machine, and a blank key aligned to it to act as the template. The original key is then cut using a special cutter to create a duplicate.
key replacements for cars of modern cars come with a transponder chip integrated into the key that is used to unlock and start the vehicle. These chips are usually located in the key head however they could also be placed in the ignition. The transponder sends an electronic signal to the computer in the car when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer then analyzes the signal to ensure that it is in line with the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for stolen vehicles to start without the owner's keys. If the signal is not in sync the vehicle's signal, it will not start. This is an enormous benefit that can stop car thieves from taking your car as the odds of someone else attempting to start and then driving away with your car are greatly decreased.
Transponder keys cost more than a flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder contains a small microchip that is expensive to make and put into the car key. These keys are typically expensive when purchased from a car dealership.
A locksmith can provide more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has a wide selection of these keys and can re-program the chip right on the spot to function with your vehicle at a fraction the cost of the dealership.
Be sure to compare quotes when shopping for the replacement transponder keys. There are many factors that influence the final cost, including the model and make of your vehicle, whether you have any additional features on the key such as a remote key fob or a remote key-fob, and also where you decide to go to get it copied.
In the end, it is important to weigh the advantages of a transponder versus the expense and convenience. If you prioritize safety and security, then a transponder key might be worth the investment in the long term. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible will not allow the car to start.
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 extra layer of protection for cars. These keys are created with specially designed key cutting equipment and are harder to duplicate 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 slits on both sides. This allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in any direction while still operating it. They are, therefore, more durable and thicker than standard keys.
They can also be utilized as a bonus to unlock certain locks with high security. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that matches with the various codes used by car manufacturers. Finding the correct depth is essential because a blade that is not cut correctly can damage the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not functioning shortly after it is placed into the lock cylinder.
The increased thickness and unique slits of laser cut car keys make them less susceptible to being copied or picked. Additionally some keys contain transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that when someone copies your car key, even if it's equipped with transponder chip, they will not be able to start your vehicle.
Laser cut car keys may be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from a dealership. Locksmiths are able to cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.
A laser-cut car key's quality can make a huge difference. A blade that is not of the right type 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 offers a variety of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different makes and models of vehicles, in addition to sidewinder keys laser-cut. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on replacement car fobs without having to go to an auto dealer!
Remote Keys
In the past having lost or misplaced your car keys was not a huge deal. Contact a locksmith for a new key and leave. Modern cars are more technologically advanced and the keys that correspond to them can be harder to replace. They can also be more difficult for thieves to copy. This means that when you lose your car key it could be more expensive than before to replace it.
Depending on the type of key you have, the cost to replace it will vary. You can purchase an old-fashioned key for $10 at your local hardware store or hire an automotive locksmith who will visit you to create it immediately.
You'll need to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade, or transponder with remote start to the dealer to be repaired. It can be costly and you may have to wait for a long period of time before the manufacturer will send you a new key.
Like any other electronic device keys for cars will stop working without reason. Often, this is due to extreme cold or heat however, it could also be caused by an ineffective battery or key fob due to rain or simply wearing out over time. If you find that your car key isn't responding, it's worth trying to reset it before calling an auto locksmith.
It's also important to remember that your key fob will only function only if it's within the range of your vehicle. It's essential to always keep your key fob close to you, and never take it out of your pocket unless essential.
The most frequent method of losing the car key is through losing it or dropping it. In certain instances this could cause it to break or be stuck in the lock and that's why it's recommended to keep a spare on hand at all times.