Car Key Replacements
It doesn't matter if it's a simple 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 a key, the cheapest solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership may be more expensive, but it's a good choice.
Mechanical Keys
The keys to your car are likely to be mechanical if you have an older vehicle that doesn't use key fobs. These standard keys are made of metal such as brass, steel or a mixture of nickel and brass. They're cut using a key duplicator, using an original key set against one side of the machine, and an unaligned blank key placed next to it to serve as an example. The original key is cut using an specialized cutter to make an exact copy.
Transponder Keys
The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chip built into the key which is used to unlock and start the vehicle. The chips are typically placed in the head of the key, but can also be located in the ignition. When the key is turned on in the ignition, the transponder emits a signal that is received by the computer system of the car. The computer then analyzes the signal to verify that it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for stolen vehicles to start without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match, the vehicle will not start. This is a huge advantage that helps discourage car thieves since the odds of someone else starting and driving away with your car are significantly diminished.
Transponder keys cost more than a flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder has a tiny microchip that is expensive to make and put into the car key. Typically, these types of keys can cost hundreds of dollars purchased through the car dealership.
A locksmith can provide cheaper and more reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has an extensive selection of these keys. They can reprogram the chip on the spot to function with your car at a fraction the cost of the dealership.
When shopping around for a transponder replacement key make sure you get multiple estimates. The final price is influenced by many factors, such as 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, it is important to weigh the benefits of a transponder against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys may be beneficial in the long run when you value security and safety. In addition, most modern vehicles have an immobilizer that won't allow the car to start if a non-transponder keys is used and this is a further reason to think about.
Laser-Cut Keys
While they might seem like something from a sci-fi movie, laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an extra layer of security for cars. They are created using specialized key cutting machines and are harder to copy or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
Contrary to traditional keys, which have grooves cut into one side the laser cut keys have slits tooled on both sides. This allows keys to be inserted into the lock cylinder either direction while still operating it. This means that they are generally robust and durable than conventional keys.
They are also used as a bonus to unlock certain locks with high security. replacement car keys are drilled to a certain depth, which is in line with the codes of various automobile manufacturers. The right depth is crucial as an incorrectly cut blade could cause damage to the key cutting machine and cause the key to stop working shortly after being put into the lock cylinder.
The increased thickness and unique slits of car keys cut with lasers make them less susceptible to being copied or taken. Furthermore some keys are equipped with transponder chips which are unique to the vehicle you're using them on. This means that even if someone copies your car key using a transponder chip they will not be in a position to start your car.
Keys for cars cut with lasers may be more expensive, but they are still less expensive than buying a new one from the dealership. Locksmiths often cut keys faster than dealerships selling cars.
Another aspect to be aware of is that the quality of a laser-cut car key can make all the difference. A bad blade could easily damage the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder leading to a large repair cost. This is why it's important to get your laser cut car key from a reliable supplier that sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a variety of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different models and makes of vehicles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to see how we can save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
Not so long ago having lost or misplaced your car keys wasn't an issue. Get a locksmith on the phone to get a new key and leave. Modern cars are more technologically advanced, and the keys that correspond to them are more difficult to replace. They can also be harder for thieves copy. It's becoming more expensive to replace a lost car key.
Depending on the type of key you have, the cost to replace it can vary. For traditional keys you can have 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 right there.
You'll have to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade or transponder that has remote start to the dealership to be repaired. It can be costly and you might need to wait for a long time for the manufacturer to send you the new key.
Like any other electronic device, your car key will stop working without reason. Often, this is due to extreme cold or heat, but it can also be caused by a bad battery or water in the key fob from rain, or simply deteriorating over time. If you find that your car key is no longer responding, it's worth trying to reset it first before calling an auto locksmith.
It's also important to know 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 with you and never let it go out of your pocket unless absolutely essential.
The most common way to lose the car key is through misplacing it or dropping it. In some instances this could cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and this is why it's always a good idea to have an extra on hand at all times.