Car Key Replacements
Whether it's a simple lock-and-key key or a more sophisticated fob key, losing it could cost you a lot. It's best to keep one spare key in your wallet.
If you do lose a key, the cheapest option is to find an auto locksmith. Dealerships are more expensive but a solid option.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older vehicle that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your keys are probably mechanical. The standard keys are made of metal, like brass, steel or a mixture of nickel and brass. They're cut using 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 using a specific cutter to create an exact duplicate.
Transponder Keys
The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chip built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the car. The chips are located in the ignition or the key head. The transponder sends a signal to the computer of the car when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer checks the signal and ensures that it is in line with the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for a stolen vehicle to start without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match, the vehicle will not start. This is an excellent benefit to deter car thefts since it decreases the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle.
A transponder key costs more than a standard metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is expensive to manufacture and install into the car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars if purchased from a car dealer.
A locksmith can offer less expensive and trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries a large assortment of keys, and they can reprogram the chip to work with your car in-the-moment at a fraction of the price of the dealership.
Be sure to compare prices when you are looking for the replacement transponder keys. The final cost is determined by many factors, including the model and make of your vehicle, the extra features you have on the key (such as a remote-control key-fob) and the location you decide to have it copied.
In the end, you need to consider the advantages of a transponder key versus the cost and ease of use. Transponder keys may be worth it in the long run in the event that you are concerned about security and safety. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible will not allow the vehicle to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
While they might seem like something from an sci-fi film, laser cut keys are in fact quite common and provide an extra layer of security for vehicles. They are created using specially designed key cutting equipment and are more difficult to duplicate or steal from thieves than traditional cut keys.
Contrary to traditional keys, which have grooves cut into one side laser cut car keys feature slits that are tooled on both sides. This allows keys to be inserted into the lock cylinder in any direction and still operate it. This means that they tend to be robust and durable than conventional keys.
They can also be used as a bonus to unlock certain locks with high security. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that is compatible with various codes used by car manufacturers. It is crucial to choose the correct depth since a blade that is cut incorrectly could harm the cutting machine and cause the key not to function once it is put into the lock.
The increased thickness and unique slits of keys made by lasers are less vulnerable to being copied or picked. Furthermore the majority of these keys contain transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that even if someone creates a duplicate of your car key using transponder chips they will not be able to start your vehicle.
Although these additional layers of security might make a laser cut car key more expensive than other keys however, the reality is that they're still much less than getting a new replacement from your dealer. In addition, locksmiths can often cut these keys more quickly than a car dealership.
Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser cut car key could make all the difference. A blade that is not of the right type could easily damage the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder, leading to a large repair cost. It is crucial to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith that sells the keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a variety of car key FOB replacement 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 replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealer!
Remote Info wasn't long ago that losing your car key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could call a locksmith, get an alternate and then leave. Nowadays, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology and keys are harder to replace and harder for thieves to duplicate. This means that if you lose your car keys, it can be more expensive than before to get it replaced.
The cost of replacing a key can vary according to the type. You can purchase a traditional key made for $10 at your local hardware store or hire an automotive locksmith who will come to you to create it on the spot.
If you own a smart key, a transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder key with remote start, you'll be required to visit your local dealer to get it replaced. This can be expensive, and you might have to wait a long time before the manufacturer can send you a new key.
Sometimes, just like any other electronic device keys for cars will stop working for no apparent reason. Most often, this happens due to extreme cold or heat however, it could also be due to an ineffective battery or water in the key fob due to rain or just wearing out over time. If you find that your car key isn't longer responding, it's worth trying to reset it first before contacting an auto locksmith.
You should also know that your keyfob will only function if you are within the reach of the vehicle. It's important to always keep your key fob close to you, and never put it in your pocket unless essential.
Most people lose their keys to their cars when they drop them or lose them. In certain instances this could cause it to break or get stuck in the lock and that's why it's a good idea to have a spare available at all times.