Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be costly, whether it's an ordinary lock-and-key or a sophisticated key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep a spare in your wallet.
If you've lost keys, the cheapest solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership could be more costly, but it's an excellent option.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys will likely be mechanical if you own an old car that doesn't have key fobs. Keys of this type are made of metal, like brass, steel or a mixture of nickel and brass. vehicle key replacement are cut on a key duplicator that uses an uncut key as a template, and an original key on the opposite side of the machine. The original key is cut with a special cutter to create an exact duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are integrated into most newer cars' keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and then start it. These chips are usually located inside the key head, however they could also be placed in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder emits a signal that is received by the car's computer system. The computer checks the signal and ensures that it matches with the correct serial number.
This makes it nearly impossible for a stolen vehicle to be started without owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match the vehicle won't start. This is a great advantage to prevent car thefts, as it reduces the likelihood of someone else stealing your car.
The drawback of a transponder key is that it's more expensive than a traditional flat metal key. The transponder is a chip that is expensive to manufacture and install into the car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a car dealer.
A locksmith can provide cheaper and more trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys and can reprogram the chip right on the spot to function with your vehicle for a fraction the cost of the dealership.
Be sure to compare quotes when shopping for the replacement transponder keys. The final cost will be influenced by many factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle, the extra features you can get on the key (such as a remote-control key-fob) and 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 convenience. Transponder keys could be beneficial in the long term in the event that you are concerned about security and safety. A non-transponder car key won't allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may seem like something from the sci-fi genre laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an additional layer of security for vehicles. Keys that require specialized key cutting equipment and are much harder for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.
In contrast to traditional keys with grooves cut into one side the laser cut keys have slits cut on both sides. This allows keys to be inserted into the lock cylinder either direction, and still operate. This means that they tend to be robust and durable than conventional keys.
In addition they can also be used to open certain high-security locks. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that is compatible with various codes used by car manufacturers. Getting the right depth is essential because a blade that is not cut correctly could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not working immediately after being inserted into the lock cylinder.
The thicker and more distinctive slits on car keys cut with lasers are less vulnerable to being copied or taken. A lot of these keys include a transponder that is unique to your vehicle. This means that if someone copies your car key even if it contains transponder chip, they will not be able to start your car.
Although these additional layers of security might make a laser cut car key more expensive than other keys, the fact is that they're still cheaper than purchasing a replacement from your dealer. Locksmiths often cut these keys more quickly 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 blade that is not of the right type can easily harm the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder, leaving you with an expensive repair bill. This is why it's important to purchase your laser-cut car key from a reliable supplier that sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a wide selection of car key FOB replacement keys for more than 250 different models and makes of vehicles, in addition to laser-cut sidewinder key replacements. Stop by today and see how we can save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealership!
Remote Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could contact an expert locksmith, get an alternate and then leave. Modern cars are more advanced in technology and keys that are compatible with them are more difficult to replace. They can also be harder for thieves copy. This means that when you lose your car keys it could be more costly than ever to replace it.
Depending on the type of key you own, the cost to replace it can vary. For keys that are traditional, you can have a copy made for about $10 at a hardware shop, or you can hire an automotive locksmith to come to you and make a copy right there.
If you have a smart key, transponder keys with a switchblade or a transponder with remote start, you'll have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. It can be very expensive, and it may take a while to obtain the new key from the manufacturer, which can delay your getting back on the road.
Sometimes, just like any other electronic device keys for cars will cease to function for no apparent reason. It is usually due to extreme cold or heat, but can be due to a bad battery or water in the keyfob following rain. It's worth resetting your car keys prior to calling an auto locksmith in the event that it's not responding.
It's also important to know that your key fob will only function when it's within reach of your vehicle. This is why it's crucial to keep your key fob with you at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you're sure that you'll be able to return it promptly.
Most people lose their keys to their car when they drop them or lose them. This can sometimes cause the key to break or become stuck in the lock. It's a good idea to always have a spare.