Car Key Replacements
It doesn't matter if it's a simple lock and key key or a sophisticated fob key, losing it could be costly. The best way to avoid this is to always keep one in your wallet.
If you lose keys, the most affordable option is to find an auto locksmith. A dealership can be more expensive, but is a great choice.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys will likely be mechanical if you own an older vehicle that doesn't use key fobs. Keys that are standard can be made of steel, brass or a mix of nickel and brass. The keys are cut using the key duplicator, which utilizes a blank key as a template and an original key against the other side of the machine. The original key is cut with a specific cutter to create an exact copy.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chips built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the car. These chips are usually placed in the head of the key, but they can also be found in the ignition. The transponder sends signals to the computer in the car when the key is inserted into the ignition. The computer analyzes the signal and ensures it is in line with the correct serial number.
It's almost impossible to start an automobile without the owner's key. If the signal does not match, the car will not start and remain locked. This is a huge advantage that helps discourage car thieves since the chances of someone else attempting to start and then driving away with your vehicle are drastically diminished.
The downside 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 create and put into a car key. The keys are usually expensive when purchased from a dealership for cars.
A locksmith can offer much cheaper and more reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys and will re-program the chip right on the spot, allowing it to work with your vehicle for less than 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 price, including the model and make of your car, if you have additional features on the key like a remote key-fob or a remote key-fob, and also where you'll go to get it copied.
In the end, you have to weigh the benefits of a transponder versus the cost and convenience. Transponder keys could be beneficial in the long term if you prioritize security and safety. A car key without a transponder will not allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may seem like something from a sci-fi movie laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an extra security measure for cars. They are created using specially designed key cutting equipment and are much harder to duplicate or steal from thieves than traditional cut keys.
In contrast to traditional keys with grooves cut into one side, laser cut car keys have slits tooled on both sides. They can be inserted in the lock cylinder in any way and still function. They are, therefore, more durable and stronger than conventional keys.
Additionally, they can also be used to unlock some high-security locks. The slits are tooled to a particular depth, which is in line with the codes of different 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 function once it is put into the lock.
The thicker and more distinctive slits of laser cut car keys make them less prone to being copied or picked. Furthermore, many of these keys are equipped with transponder chips which are unique to your car. This means that even if someone makes a copy of your car's key with transponder chips it won't be in a position to start your car.
While these extra layers of security might make a laser cut car key more expensive than other keys, the fact is that they're still less expensive than getting a new replacement from your dealership. Locksmiths can often cut keys faster than dealerships for cars.
A car key that is laser cut's quality can make a huge difference. A bad blade could easily damage the key cutting machine or the cylinder of your lock, which could result in a costly repair cost. This is why it's important to purchase your laser-cut car key from a reputable company that sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a wide selection of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different models and makes of vehicles, in addition to sidewinder keys laser-cut. Visit us today and discover how we can help save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of having to go to a dealership!
Remote replacements car key wasn't long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a big deal. You could call an locksmith, receive an alternative and drive away. Nowadays, however, automobiles are much more technologically advanced and keys are more difficult to replace and more difficult for thieves to duplicate. This means that when you lose your car key, it can be more expensive than before to replace it.
The cost of replacing a key will vary according to the type. For traditional keys you can get one made for $10 at a hardware store or you can get an automotive locksmith to come to you and make one right there.
You will need to take your smart key, transponder with switchblade or transponder that has remote start to the dealership to be replaced. This can be very costly, and it may take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer which will delay your getting back on the road.
Like any other electronic device, your car key will stop working without reason. Most often, this happens due to extreme cold or heat however, it could also be caused by an ineffective battery, water in the key fob due to rain or simply wearing out over time. It is recommended to reset your car keys prior to calling an auto locksmith if you find that it is 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 important to keep your key fob close to you at all times, and never let it go out of your pocket unless you're sure that you'll be able to return it quickly.
Most people lose their car keys by dropping them or misplacing them. In certain instances this could cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and that's why it's always an ideal idea to have an extra in your possession at all times.