15 Amazing Facts About Car Key Replacements
Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key could be expensive, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a more sophisticated key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always have one in your wallet.
If you do lose keys, the most affordable alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. A dealership can be more expensive but a solid alternative.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys are likely to be mechanical if you own an old car that doesn't use key fobs. These standard keys can be made from steel, brass or a mix of nickel and brass. They are cut with the key duplicator machine with an original key positioned against one side of the machine, and a blank key aligned to it to act as a template. The key that was originally used is cut with a specialized cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
The majority of modern cars come with a transponder chip built into the key which is used to unlock and start the car. The chips are located in the ignition or the key head. The transponder sends an electronic signal to the car's computer when the key is turned into the ignition. The computer checks the signal and makes sure that it matches the correct serial number.
It is almost impossible to start a car without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match the car's signal, it won't start and will remain locked. This is an enormous benefit that helps deter car thieves as the odds of someone else starting and driving off with your vehicle are drastically decreased.
Transponder keys cost more than a regular metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is costly to produce and integrate into the car key. Typically, these types of keys can cost hundreds of dollars if purchased from a car dealer.
A locksmith can provide less expensive and more trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive selection of keys, and can reprogramme the chip to work with your car replacement keys in-the-moment for a fraction of cost of a dealership.
When shopping around for a transponder replacement key, be sure to get multiple estimates. The final cost is determined by many factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle, the additional features you can get on the key (such as a remote control key-fob), and even the location you decide to copy it.
In the end, it is important to weigh the advantages of a transponder versus the cost and convenience. Transponder keys might be beneficial in the long term when you value security and safety. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible won't allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys may look like something from a sci-fi film However, they are actually very common. They add an extra layer of security for cars. They require specialized key cutting equipment and are much more difficult for thieves to copy or pick than traditional cut keys.
Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side, laser cut car keys feature slits that are tooled on both sides. They can be inserted into the lock cylinder in any way, and they still function. They are, therefore, more durable and stronger than conventional keys.
They can also be used as a bonus to unlock certain locks with high security. The slits are drilled to a specific depth, which is in line with the codes of different automobile manufacturers. It is important to get the right depth, as an incorrectly-cut blade can damage the cutting machine, and make the key unable to function once it is put into the lock.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of laser-cut car keys make them more resistant to being copied. Additionally the majority of these keys contain transponder chips that are unique to your car. This means that when someone copies your car key even if it contains transponder chip it will not be able start your vehicle.
Keys for cars cut with lasers may be more expensive, but they are still cheaper than buying a replacement from a dealership. Locksmiths often cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.
Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser-cut car key can make all the difference. The wrong blade can easily cause damage to your key cutting machine or lock cylinder and leave you with a costly repair cost of a replacement car key. This is why it's important to purchase your laser cut car key from a reputable supplier who sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a wide choice of car key replacement FOB keys for over 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also have laser-cut sidewinder keys. Stop by today and see how we can save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of having to go to a dealership!
Remote Keys
Not too long ago having lost or misplaced your car keys was not an issue. Contact a locksmith for a new key and then drive away. The cars of today are more advanced in technology and the keys that correspond to them may be more difficult to replace. They can also be more difficult for thieves to copy. It's becoming more expensive to replace a lost car key.
The cost of replacing a key will vary according to the type. For traditional keys you can get a copy made for about $10 at a hardware store or you can hire an locksmith from the automotive industry to visit you and create a key on the spot.
If you own an electronic car key replacement key, a transponder key with switchblade, or a transponder with remote start, you'll need to visit your dealership to have it replaced. It can be very expensive and may take a while to obtain the new key from the manufacturer, which will delay your getting back on the road.
Your car key replacement cost key might stop working for no apparent reason, just like other electronic devices. This can be due to extreme heat or cold however, it can also be caused from an unsatisfactory battery or water in the keyfob following rain. If you notice that your car key is no responding, you should consider trying to reset it first before calling an auto locksmith.
It's also important to know that your key fob will only function if it's within range of your vehicle. This is why it's important 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 common method of losing keys to cars is misplacing it or dropping it. In some instances this could cause it to break or get stuck in the lock and that's why it's recommended to keep an extra key available at all times.