Car Key Replacements
If it's a basic lock-and-key keys or a sophisticated fob key, losing one can cost you big time. The best way to avoid this is to always keep an extra key in your wallet.
If you lose keys, the most affordable solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership is more expensive but a solid alternative.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older vehicle that doesn't use key fob technology, your keys are probably mechanical. These standard keys can be made from steel, brass or a mixture of nickel and brass. They're cut using a key duplicator machine, with an original key positioned against one side of the machine, and an unaligned blank key placed next to it to act as an example. The original key is cut using an specialized cutter to make the copy.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are integrated into most newer cars' keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and begin it. The chips are typically placed inside the key head, but they can also be found in the ignition. The transponder transmits an electronic signal to the computer of the car when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer analyzes the signal and ensures that it is in line with the correct serial number.
This makes it almost impossible for a stolen car to be started without owner's keys. If the signal is not in sync, the vehicle will not start. This is a huge advantage to prevent car thefts, as it reduces the likelihood of someone else driving off with your vehicle.
Transponder keys cost more than a flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder contains a small microchip that isn't cheap to make and put into the car key. These keys are typically expensive when purchased from a car dealership.
A locksmith can offer more reliable and cheaper transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys. They can reprogram the chip right on the spot to function with your vehicle for less than the dealership.
Be sure to check out prices when you are looking for the replacement transponder keys. There are a variety of factors that influence the final cost, including the model and make of your car, whether you have additional features on the key, such as a remote key fob or a remote key-fob, and also where you'll go to get it copied.
In the end, you need to evaluate the advantages of a transponder key against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys could be beneficial in the long run, in the event that you are concerned about safety and protection. In addition, most modern cars have an immobilizer that will not allow them to start if a non-transponder key is used and this is a further factor to consider.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys might appear like something from a sci-fi film However, they are actually quite common. car key replacement provide an additional layer of security for cars. Keys that require special key cutting equipment and are much harder for thieves to copy 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. They can be inserted in the lock cylinder either way and still function. They are therefore more durable and robust than standard keys.
As a bonus they can also be used to unlock certain high-security locks. The slits are tooled to a particular depth that matches the codes of different car manufacturers. It is important to get the correct depth as a blade that is cut incorrectly could cause damage to the cutting machine and cause the key to not to function after it has been placed into the lock.
The increased thickness and unique slits on car keys cut with lasers are less vulnerable to being copied or picked. Many of these keys also have a transponder chip that is specific to your car. This means that when someone copies your car keys, even if it's equipped with transponder chip it will not be able start your vehicle.
Although these extra layers of security may make a laser cut car key more expensive than other types, the fact is that they're still less expensive than purchasing a replacement from your dealership. Locksmiths are able to cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.
Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser-cut car key can make a huge difference. The wrong blade can easily cause damage to your key cutting machine or lock cylinder, leaving you with a huge repair cost. It's vital to purchase your laser-cut car keys from an auto locksmith who sells the keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of car key FOB replacement keys for more than 250 different models and makes of vehicles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder key replacements. Visit us today to find out how you can save money on replacements for your car fob without having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't that long ago that a car key was lost or losing it was not a big issue. You could call a locksmith, get a replacement and still drive away. Today's cars are more advanced in technology and the keys that correspond to them may be more difficult to replace. They also are difficult to steal. This means that when you lose your car key it will be more expensive than ever to get it replaced.
The cost of replacing a key can vary according to the kind. For keys that are traditional you can get one made for $10 at a hardware shop, or you can hire an automotive locksmith to visit you and create a key right there.
If you have a smart key, 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. This can be very costly, and it may take a while to obtain the new key from the manufacturer, which will delay your getting back on the road.
Your car key can not function for no apparent cause as do other electronic devices. It is usually due to extreme heat or cold however, it can be due to an unsatisfactory battery or water in the keyfob following rain. It's a good idea to reset your car keys prior to calling an auto locksmith if you find that it's not responding.
It's also important to remember that your key fob will only function only if it's within the range of your vehicle. It's essential to always keep your key fob with you, and never put it in your pocket unless necessary.
The most frequent method of losing keys to cars is losing it or dropping it. In certain instances this could cause it to break or be stuck in the lock, which is why it's an ideal idea to have a spare available at all times.