Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be expensive, whether it's an ordinary lock-and-key or a more sophisticated key fob. The best way to prevent this is to keep an extra key in your wallet.
The cheapest option is to contact an auto locksmith if you have lost your key. A dealership might be more expensive, but it is an option worth considering.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older vehicle that doesn't use key fob technology, your keys are likely mechanical. The standard keys are made from steel, brass or a mixture of nickel and brass. The keys are cut on the key duplicator, which uses the blank key as a template, and an original key placed on the other side of the machine. The original key is cut with a specific cutter to create a copy.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are integrated in the majority of newer automobiles keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and begin it. The chips are located in the ignition or the key head. The transponder sends signals to the computer of the car when the key is inserted into the ignition. The computer checks the signal and makes sure that it matches the correct serial number.
It's almost impossible to start a car without the owner's key. If the signal isn't compatible, the car will not start and will remain locked. This is an excellent advantage to prevent car thefts as it lowers the risk of someone else stealing your car key replacements near me.
A transponder key is more expensive than a flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder contains a small microchip that's expensive to produce and install in a car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a car dealer.
A locksmith can offer less expensive and more trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries many of these keys and can even reprogram the chip to work with your car on the spot for a fraction of cost of the dealership.
Be sure to compare quotes when shopping for an alternative transponder key. The final price is influenced by a variety of factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, the extra features that you can find on the key (such as a remote-control key-fob), and even the location where you choose to copy it.
In the end, you need to weigh the benefits of a transponder versus the cost and convenience. Transponder keys might be beneficial in the long run in the event that you are concerned about safety and protection. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible won't allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may sound like something out of an sci-fi film Laser cut keys are in fact quite common and provide an extra layer of security for vehicles. These keys are created with specially designed key cutting equipment and are much harder to copy or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys are different from traditional keys that have grooves on one side. They also have cut-outs on both sides. They can be inserted in the lock cylinder any way and still function. This means that they are generally sturdier and thicker than traditional keys.
They are also used as a bonus to unlock certain locks with high security. The slits are made to a particular depth that matches the codes of the different car manufacturers. Finding the correct depth is vital since a wrongly cut blade 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 unique slits and increased thickness of car keys cut with lasers make them more resistant to copying. Furthermore, many of these keys are equipped with transponder chips which are unique to the vehicle you're using them on. This means that even if a person makes a copy of your car key using transponder chips, they won't be in a position to start your car.
Laser-cut car keys might be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement car key cost from the dealership. Locksmiths can often cut keys faster than car dealerships.
Another aspect to be aware of is that the quality of a laser-cut car key could make all the difference. A bad blade can easily harm the key cutting machine or the cylinder of your lock, leaving you with an expensive repair bill. This is why it's important to purchase your laser cut car key from a trusted company that sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has an extensive range of replacement keys for car car key FOB keys for more than 250 different models and makes of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today and discover how we can help you save money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
Not too long ago having lost or misplaced keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could contact an locksmith, receive an alternative and leave. Today, however, cars are much more technologically advanced and keys are more difficult to replace and even more difficult for thieves to duplicate. It's now more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.
The cost of replacing a key will differ depending on the type. You can get a traditional key made for just $10 at a local hardware store or hire an automotive locksmith who will come to you and make the key on the spot.
If you have an intelligent key, a transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder with remote start, you will be required to visit your local dealer to have it replaced. This can be quite costly, and it may take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer which could delay getting back on the road.
The car key may cease to function without a clear reason, just like other electronic devices. Most often, this happens due to extreme cold or heat, but it can also be caused by a bad battery or water in the key fob due to rain or simply deteriorating over time. It is recommended to reset your cheap car key replacement key prior to calling an auto locksmith in the event that it is not responding.
It is important to know that your key fob can only function if you're within the reach of the vehicle. It's important to always keep your key fob with you and not let it go out of your pocket unless it's absolutely necessary.
The most common method of losing the car key is through losing it or dropping it. In certain instances this could cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and this is why it's an ideal idea to have an extra key in your possession at all times.