Car Key Replacements
Whether it's a simple lock-and-key keys or a sophisticated fob key, losing one can cost you a lot. It's best to keep an extra key in your wallet.
The cheapest option is to contact an auto locksmith in the event that you've lost your keys. A dealership can be more expensive but a solid choice.
Mechanical Keys
The keys to your car are likely to be mechanical if you own an old vehicle that does not use key fobs. These standard keys can be made from steel, brass, or a combination between nickel and brass. They are 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 function as the template. The original key is cut using a special 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 start it. The chips are located in the ignition or on the key head. When the key is turned on in the ignition, the transponder emits a signal that is received by the computer system of the car. The computer examines the signal and makes sure that it matches with the correct serial number.
This makes it nearly impossible for a stolen car to be started without owner's keys. If the signal does not match the vehicle's signal, it will not start. This is a great advantage to prevent car thefts since it reduces the likelihood of someone else driving off with 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 costly to produce and install into a car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars if purchased through the car dealership.
A locksmith can offer more reliable and affordable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has a wide selection of these keys and can reprogram the chip on the spot to function with your vehicle for only a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
If you're looking for a transponder key replacement, be sure to get multiple estimates. There are a variety of factors that impact the final cost, including the make and model of your car, if you have any additional features on the key, like a remote key-fob or a remote key-fob, and also where you decide to go to get it copied.
Ultimately, you should consider the advantages of a transponder key against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys could be beneficial in the long run when you value security and safety. A non-transponder car key won't allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may seem like something from an sci-fi film Laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an extra security measure for vehicles. They require specialized key cutting equipment to make and are much more difficult 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. This allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either direction while still operating it. They are thus more durable and robust than conventional keys.
They are also utilized as a bonus to open high-security locks. The slits are made to a particular depth that matches the codes of different car manufacturers. It is essential to select the correct depth as cutting the blade incorrectly can damage the cutting machine, and cause the key not to work after it is put into the lock.
The unique slits and increased thickness of car keys cut with lasers make them more resistant to being copied. Many of these keys also have a transponder chip that is unique to your car. This means that even if a person makes a copy of your car's key with transponder chips they will not be able to start your car.
Although these additional layers of security could make a laser cut car key more expensive than other keys, the fact is that they're still less expensive than buying a new one from your dealer. In addition, locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys more quickly than a car dealership.
Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser-cut car key can make a huge difference. A blade that is not of the right type can easily harm the machine that cuts keys or the cylinder of your lock, which could result in a costly repair cost. This is why it's important to purchase your laser-cut car key from a reputable supplier who sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a large selection of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today to find out how you can save money on replacement car fobs without going to an auto dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't long ago that a car key was lost or losing it was not a huge deal. You could call an locksmith, receive an alternate and then drive away. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and the corresponding keys can be harder to replace and even more difficult for thieves to duplicate. This means that when you lose your car keys it will be more costly than ever to get it replaced.
The cost of replacing a key will vary depending on the kind. For keys that are traditional you can have an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware shop, or you can ask an automotive locksmith to come to you and make one on the spot.
You will need to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade or transponder with remote start to the dealership to be changed. This can be very costly, and it may take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer, which could delay getting back on the road.
Sometimes, just like car key replacement cost , your car key will stop working without reason. Usually, this is due to extreme cold or heat but it could be due to an unsatisfactory battery or key fob from rain or just wearing out over time. It's worth resetting your car key before calling an auto locksmith if you find that it is not responding.
It's also important to remember that your key fob can only function when it's within reach of the vehicle. This is the reason it's essential to keep your key fob on you at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you are certain that you can return it quickly.
The most common method of losing the car key is through losing it or dropping it. In certain instances, this can cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and that's why it's always recommended to keep an extra key available at all times.