Car Key Replacements
Losing a key can be expensive, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a sophisticated key fob. It's ideal to keep an extra key replacements for cars in your wallet.
The cheapest solution is to call an auto locksmith in the event that you lose your key. Dealerships are more expensive, but is a great alternative.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older car that doesn't have key fob technology, your keys are likely mechanical. Keys of this type are made of metal, like steel, brass or a mixture of brass and nickel. Keys are cut using the key duplicator, which makes use of a blank key as a template and an original key on the opposite side of the machine. The original key is cut with an specialized cutter to make an exact copy.
Transponder Keys
The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chips built into the key that is used to unlock and start the vehicle. These chips can be found in the ignition, or the key head. The transponder transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer when the key is turned into the ignition. The computer then checks the signal to verify that it is in line with the correct serial number.
This makes it almost impossible for stolen vehicles to start without the owner's keys. If the signal is not in sync the vehicle's signal, it will not start. This is an excellent advantage to prevent car thefts, as it decreases the chance of someone else stealing your car.
The drawback of a transponder key is that it costs more than a traditional flat metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is expensive to create and put into the car key. Typically, these types of keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries many of keys, and they can reprogramme the chip to work with your car on the spot for a fraction of price of the dealership.
Be sure to check out estimates when looking for an alternative transponder key. There are a variety of factors that influence the final cost, including the make and model of your vehicle, whether you have any extra features on the key such as a remote key-fob and where you'll go to get it copied.
In the end, you must weigh the benefits of a transponder key against the cost and ease of use. If you prioritize safety and security, then a transponder key may be worth the investment in the long term. Additionally, many modern cars come with an immobilizer that will not allow the car to start if a key that is not transponder is used which is another factor to consider.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys may look like something from a sci-fi film however they are actually quite common. They add an extra layer of security to automobiles. These keys require special key cutting equipment and are much harder for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.
Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side laser cut car keys have slits tooled on both sides. This allows keys to be inserted into the lock cylinder in any direction while still operating it. As a result, they tend to be more robust and durable than conventional keys.
As a bonus they can also be used to unlock certain high-security locks. The slits are drilled to a specific depth, which matches the codes of the different automobile manufacturers. The right depth is crucial as an incorrectly cut blade could damage the key cutting machine and result in the key not working shortly after being placed into the lock cylinder.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of laser-cut car keys make them more resistant to being copied. In addition the majority of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that even if a person copies your car's key with a transponder chip they will not be in a position to start your car.
Although these extra layers of security may make a laser-cut car key more expensive than other kinds but the truth is that they're still much less than buying a new one from your dealership. Locksmiths often cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.
A laser-cut car key's quality can make a big difference. A blade that is not of the right type could easily damage the key cutting machine or the cylinder of your lock, leading to a large repair bill. It is essential to purchase your laser-cut car key from an auto locksmith who sells them.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has an extensive choice of cheap car key replacement key replacement car key fob FOB keys for over 250 different models and makes of vehicles. We also have laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today to see how we can help save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
Not so long ago, misplacing or even losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could contact an expert locksmith, get an alternate and then drive away. Today, however, cars are much more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys are more difficult to replace and even more difficult for thieves to copy. It's now more expensive to replace the key to a car that has been lost.
The cost of replacing a key can vary according to the type. For traditional keys, you can have an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store or you can ask an automotive locksmith to visit you and create a key on the spot.
You'll need to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade, or transponder with remote start to the dealer to be replaced. This can be expensive and you might have to wait a long time for the manufacturer to send you a new key.
Your car key might cease to function without a clear cause as with other electronic devices. Most often, this happens due to extreme cold or heat however, it could also be caused by an ineffective battery or water in the key fob due to rain or just wearing out over time. 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 understand that your key fob will only function if it's within range of the car. It is essential to keep your key fob close to you and not let it go out of your pocket unless absolutely essential.
Most people lose their keys to their car when they drop them or lose keys. This could result in the key breaking or get stuck in the lock. It's a good idea to always have a spare.