Car Key Replacements
If it's a basic lock-and-key key or a more sophisticated fob key, losing one can cost you big time. The best way to prevent this is to always have an extra key in your wallet.
The cheapest solution is to call an auto locksmith in the event that you lose your key. A dealership could be more costly, but it's a good choice.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys will likely be mechanical if you have an old vehicle that does not use key fobs. Keys of this type are made of metal, like brass, steel or a combination of brass and nickel. They are cut with a key duplicator machine, with an original key positioned against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned with it to act as the template. The original key is cut using a special 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 vehicle. These chips are usually located inside the key head, but can also be located in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder emits a signal that is received by the computer system in the car. The computer checks the signal and ensures it is in line with the correct serial number.
It's nearly impossible to start cars without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match, the vehicle will not start. This is an excellent benefit to deter car thefts as it decreases the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle.
The disadvantage of transponder keys is that it is more expensive than a standard flat metal key. This is because the transponder has a tiny microchip that's expensive to manufacture and then install into the car key. Keys like these are usually expensive when purchased from a car dealership.
A locksmith can provide less expensive and secure transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries a large assortment of these keys and can even modify the chip to work with your vehicle on-the-spot at a fraction of the price of the dealership.
When you are looking to replace a transponder key make sure you get multiple quotes. The final cost will be influenced 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 have it copied.
In the end, you need to evaluate the advantages of a transponder key against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys might be beneficial in the long run when you value security and safety. A car key without a transponder will not allow the vehicle to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys may appear like something from a sci-fi movie However, they are actually quite common. They provide an additional layer of security for cars. These keys require specialized key cutting equipment and are more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.
Contrary to traditional keys, which have grooves cut into one side laser cut car keys have slits tooled on both sides. They can be inserted into the lock cylinder either way and still work. They are thus more durable and stronger than conventional keys.
They can also be used as a bonus to open certain high-security locks. This is due to the slits being fitted into a certain depth that matches with the various codes used by car manufacturers. Finding the correct depth is vital since a wrongly cut blade could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys and cause the key to stop working immediately after being placed into the lock cylinder.
The increased thickness and unique slits of laser cut car keys make them less susceptible to being copied or taken. In addition, 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 they will not be in a position to start your vehicle.
Although these additional 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 getting a new replacement from your dealer. In addition, locksmiths are often able to cut these keys faster than a car dealership.
The quality of a laser-cut car key can make a significant difference. A bad blade could easily damage the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder leaving you with an expensive repair bill. This is why it's important to purchase your laser cut car key from a trusted supplier that sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of car key FOB replacement keys for over 250 different models and makes of vehicles, in addition to laser-cut sidewinder key replacements. 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 dealership!
Remote Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing your car key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could call an locksmith, receive a replacement and still leave. Modern cars are more advanced in technology and keys that are compatible with them can be harder to replace. They are also difficult to steal. It's becoming more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.
key car replacement of replacing a key can vary depending on the kind. For traditional keys you can get an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store, or you can ask an automotive locksmith to come to you and make one right there.
If you have an electronic key, transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder with remote start, you will have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This can be expensive and you might have to wait for a long time before the manufacturer can send you an alternative key.
Like any other electronic device, your car key will stop working for no apparent reason. Usually, this is due to extreme cold or heat, but it can be due to a bad battery or water in the key fob due to rain or simply wearing out over time. If you notice that your car key isn't longer responding, it's worth trying to reset it before calling an auto locksmith.
It's also important to know that your key fob will only work when it's within reach of the car. This is why it's important to keep your key fob close to your person at all times, and never let it go out of your pocket unless you're sure that you can return it promptly.
Most people lose their keys to their cars by dropping them or misplacing keys. This can cause the key to break or get stuck in the lock. It's recommended to always have an extra.