Car Key Replacements
If it's a basic lock-and-key key or a sophisticated fob key, losing one can cost you a lot. It's recommended to keep one spare key in your wallet.
The cheapest solution is to call an auto locksmith if you have lost your key. A dealership might be more expensive, but it's an option worth considering.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older vehicle that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your keys are likely mechanical. These standard keys can be made of brass, steel or a mix of brass and nickel. They are cut with the key duplicator machine using an original key set against one side of the machine, and a blank key aligned to it to serve as the template. The key that was originally used is cut with a specially-designed cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are integrated into most newer cars keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and then start it. These chips can be found in the ignition or the key head. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder emits the signal to be received by the computer system of the car. The computer analyzes the signal and ensures that it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it nearly impossible for a stolen vehicle to start without the owner's keys. If the signal isn't compatible the car's signal, it won't start and remain locked. This is an excellent benefit to deter car thefts as it reduces the likelihood of someone else driving off with your car.
The drawback of a transponder key is that it is more expensive than a conventional flat metal key. The transponder is a microchip that is costly to produce and put into the car key. emergency car key replacement are typically expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can provide more reliable and affordable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys and can reprogram the chip on the spot to function with your vehicle at only a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
Be sure to compare quotes when shopping for the replacement transponder keys. There are many factors that influence the final price, including the model and make of your car, whether you have any additional features on the key such as a remote key fob, and even the location you choose to copy it.
In the end, you have to weigh the advantages of a transponder versus the expense and convenience. Transponder keys might be worth it in the long run when you value security and safety. In addition, most modern cars come with an immobilizer that doesn't allow the car to start if a non-transponder key is utilized, so this is another aspect to take into consideration.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys may sound like something from a sci-fi movie however they are actually fairly common. They add an extra layer of security for cars. These keys require specialized key cutting equipment to make and are much harder for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.
In contrast to traditional keys with grooves cut into one side, laser cut car keys feature slits that are tooled on both sides. This allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder either direction, and still operate. They are thus more durable and stronger than traditional keys.
They can also be used as a bonus to open certain high-security locks. The slits are made to a certain depth that matches the codes of various automobile manufacturers. The right depth is crucial since a wrongly cut blade can damage the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not working immediately after being put into the lock cylinder.
The thicker and more distinctive slits in keys made by lasers are less vulnerable to being copied or taken. Some keys contain transponder chip that is unique to your car. This means that even if someone copies your car key with transponder chips it won't be capable of starting your vehicle.
Although these extra layers of security might make a laser-cut car key more expensive than other keys however, the reality is that they're still less expensive than purchasing a replacement from your dealer. Locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys more quickly than the car dealership.
The quality of a laser-cut car key can make a significant difference. The wrong blade could damage the machine that cuts keys or lock cylinder and leave you with a costly repair cost. This is why it's important to purchase your laser-cut car key from a trusted supplier that sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a wide selection of car key FOB replacement keys for over 250 different makes and models of vehicles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to find out how you can save money on replacement car fobs without having to go to an auto dealer!
Remote Keys
Not so long ago having lost or misplaced your car keys was not an issue. You could call an locksmith, receive an alternative and leave. Today's cars are more advanced in technology and keys that are compatible with them may be more difficult to replace. They can also be difficult to steal. It is now more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.
The cost of replacing a key can vary depending on the kind. For traditional keys, you can have an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store or you can hire an automotive locksmith to visit you and create a key on the spot.
If car key replacement emergency have a smart key, a transponder key with a switchblade, or a transponder key with remote start, you'll be required to visit your local dealer to get it replaced. It can be very expensive and may take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer which will delay your getting back on the road.
Sometimes, just like any other electronic device keys for cars will stop working without reason. Most often, this happens due to extreme heat or cold however, it could also be due to a bad battery, water in the key fob from rain, or simply wearing out over time. It's worth resetting your car key before calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it is not responding.
You should also know that your key fob can only function if you are within the reach of the vehicle. It is essential to keep your key fob with you and never take it out of your pocket unless it's absolutely necessary.
A majority of people lose their keys to their car by dropping them or misplacing them. In certain instances, this can cause it to break or be stuck in the lock and this is why it's always an ideal idea to have an extra key on hand at all times.