Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be costly, regardless of whether it's a standard lock-and-key or a sophisticated key fob. auto key replacement to prevent this is to always have one in your wallet.
The cheapest solution is to contact an auto locksmith in the event that you have lost your key. A dealership can be more expensive, but is a great alternative.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys will likely be mechanical if you have an old vehicle that does not use key fobs. These standard keys can be made of steel, brass, or a combination between brass and nickel. They're cut using the key duplicator machine with an original key positioned against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned with it to act as an example. The original key is cut using a special cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chip integrated 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 transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer then checks the signal to verify that it matches with the correct serial number.
It is almost impossible to start a car without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match, the vehicle will not start. This is a huge benefit that helps stop car thieves from taking your car as the likelihood of someone else starting and driving away with your vehicle are drastically diminished.
The disadvantage of a transponder key is that it's more expensive than a standard flat metal key. The transponder is a microchip that is expensive to manufacture and put into the car key. Keys like these are usually expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer much less expensive and reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries many of keys, and can reprogramme the chip to work with your vehicle on-the-spot for a fraction of cost of the dealership.
When shopping around to replace a transponder key ensure you request multiple estimates. The final cost will be influenced by many factors, including the model and make of your vehicle, any additional features you can get on the key (such as a remote control key-fob) and the location you decide to have it copied.
Ultimately, you should weigh the benefits of a transponder key against the cost and ease of use. Transponder keys might be beneficial in the long run if you prioritize security and safety. Additionally, many modern cars come with an immobilizer that won't allow the car to start if a non-transponder key is used, so this is another factor to consider.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may appear like something from the sci-fi genre Laser cut keys are actually quite common and offer an additional layer of security for cars. These keys are created with specially designed key cutting equipment and are harder 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 them to be put into the lock cylinder in either direction and still operate it. In the end, they are generally sturdy and stronger than standard keys.
They can also be utilized as a bonus to open certain high-security locks. The slits are drilled to a particular depth, which matches the codes of the different car manufacturers. It is important to get the right depth, as cutting the blade incorrectly can cause damage to the cutting machine and cause the key not to function after it is put into the lock.
The unique slits and increased thickness of laser-cut car keys make them more resistant to copying. A lot of these keys include a transponder that is unique to your car. This means that when someone copies your car keys, even if it contains transponder chip, they will not be able to start your car.
Although these extra layers of security might make a laser cut car key more expensive than other kinds however, the reality is that they're still less expensive than getting a new replacement from your dealer. In addition, locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys faster than car dealerships.
A car key that is laser cut's quality can make a big difference. A bad blade could easily damage the machine that cuts keys or the cylinder of your lock, which could result in a costly repair cost. It is essential to purchase your laser-cut car key from an auto locksmith who sells the keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has an extensive selection of replacement car key FOB keys that fit more than 250 different models and makes of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on car fob replacements without going to an auto dealer!
Remote Keys
Not too long ago the possibility of losing or misplacing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could contact a locksmith, get an alternate and then leave. Nowadays, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and the corresponding keys are harder to replace and harder for thieves to copy. It's now more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.
The cost of replacing a key can vary depending on the kind. You can have traditional keys for $10 at a local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will visit you to create it right there.
You will need to take your smart key, transponder with switchblade, or transponder with remote start to the dealership to be replaced. This can be expensive and you might have to wait for a long period of time before the manufacturer will send you an alternative key.
Sometimes, just like any other electronic device the car key can stop working for no apparent reason. This is often due to extreme cold or heat however, it can also be caused from an unsatisfactory battery or water in the keyfob from rain. If you notice that your car key isn't longer responding, it's worth trying to reset it first before contacting an auto locksmith.
It's also important to know that your key fob will only work if it's within range of the car. This is the reason it's essential to keep your key fob close to you at all times, and to not leave it in your pocket unless you're certain that you can return it quickly.
The most common way to lose keys to cars is misplacing it or dropping it. This can sometimes result in the key breaking or get stuck in the lock. It's a good idea to always have a spare.