Car Key Replacements
Whether it's a simple lock-and-key key or a sophisticated fob key, losing one can be costly. The best way to avoid this is to always keep one in your wallet.
The cheapest option is to contact an auto locksmith in the event that you have lost your key. A dealership might be more expensive, but it is an option worth considering.
Mechanical Keys
The keys to your car are likely to be mechanical if you own an old car that does not use key fobs. The standard keys are made from metal such as brass, steel or a mixture of nickel and brass. They are cut using the key duplicator machine with the original key placed against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned with it to act as a template. The original key is cut using a special 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 vehicle. These chips can be found in the ignition or on the key head. The transponder sends an electronic signal to the car's computer when the key is inserted into the ignition. The computer analyzes the signal and ensures that it matches the correct serial number.
It is almost impossible to start a car without the owner's keys. If the signal isn't compatible the car's signal, it won't start and remain locked. This is a huge advantage that helps stop car thieves from taking your car as the likelihood of someone else starting and driving away with your vehicle are drastically decreased.
The disadvantage of a transponder key is that it is more expensive than a traditional flat metal key. The transponder is a chip that is expensive to manufacture and put into the car key. Keys like these are usually expensive when purchased from a car dealership.
A locksmith can provide more reliable and cheaper transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive selection of keys, and they can modify the chip to work with your car on the spot at a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
Be sure to check out prices when you are looking for a replacement transponder key. There are a variety of factors that impact the final cost, including the make and model of your car, whether you have any extra features on the key such as a remote key fob, and even where you decide to go to get it copied.
Ultimately, you should consider the advantages of a transponder-based key against the cost and ease of use. Transponder keys may be worth it in the long run if you prioritize safety and protection. Additionally, the majority of modern cars come with an immobilizer that won't allow them to start if a non-transponder key is used and this is a further reason to think about.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys may sound like something from a sci-fi movie, but they are quite common. They provide an additional security layer to cars. They require specialized key cutting equipment to make and are more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys are different from traditional keys, which have grooves on one side. They also have slits on both sides. This allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in any direction, and still operate. This means that they are generally robust and durable than conventional keys.
As a bonus they can also be used to open some high-security locks. This is because the slits are placed in a particular depth that is compatible with various codes used by car manufacturers. It is essential to select the correct depth since cutting the blade incorrectly can cause damage to the cutting machine and make the key unable to work after it is put into the lock.
The increased thickness and unique slits on keys made by lasers are less vulnerable to being copied or picked. Many of these keys also have a transponder chip that is unique to your car. This means that even if a person makes a copy of your car key with transponder chips they will not be capable of starting your vehicle.
Laser cut car keys may be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from the dealership. Locksmiths can often cut these keys faster than dealerships for cars.
Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser-cut car key could make all the difference. A bad blade could easily damage the machine that cuts keys or your lock cylinder leading to a large repair bill. It is crucial to purchase your laser-cut car key from an auto locksmith who sells them.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a wide selection of replacement car key FOB keys that fit more than 250 different models and makes of vehicles. We also offer a laser-cut sidewinder key. Stop by today and see how we can save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of having to go to a dealership!
Remote Keys
In the past, misplacing or even losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could contact an expert locksmith, get an alternate and then drive away. Nowadays, however, cars are a lot more technologically advanced and keys can be harder to replace and more difficult for thieves to copy. It's becoming 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 will differ. You can purchase a traditional key made for $10 at a local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will visit you to create it on the spot.
You will need to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade or transponder that has remote start to the dealer to be replaced. This can be very costly and may take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer, which could delay getting back on the road.
Your car key might not function for no apparent cause as do other electronic devices. Often, this is due to extreme cold or heat but it could also be caused by an ineffective battery or key fob due to rain or simply deteriorating over time. If review find that your car key isn't responding, it's worth trying to reset it first before contacting an auto locksmith.
You should also be aware that your keyfob will only function if you are within the range 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 sure that you can return it promptly.
The most frequent method of losing keys to cars is misplacing it or dropping it. In some instances, this can cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and this is why it's recommended to keep an extra key on hand at all times.