Car Key Replacements
Losing a key can be costly, regardless of whether it's a standard lock-and-key or a high-end key fob. It's ideal to keep one spare key in your wallet.
If you lose keys, the most affordable alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. Dealerships are more expensive but a solid option.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older car that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your keys are probably mechanical. These standard keys can be made from steel, brass, or a combination between nickel and brass. They're cut using a key duplicator, with an original key positioned against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned to it to act as the template. The original key is cut with a specific cutter to create the duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chip integrated into the key which is used to unlock and start the vehicle. These chips are usually placed inside the key head, but they can also be found in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder emits an electronic signal that is picked up by the computer system in the car. The computer then checks the signal to ensure that it is in line with the correct serial number.
This makes it nearly impossible for a stolen vehicle to start without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match, the vehicle will not start. This is a huge benefit to deter car thefts as it lowers the risk of someone else stealing your vehicle.
A transponder key costs more than a regular metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is expensive to create and integrate into the car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a car dealer.
A locksmith can provide more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys. They can program the chip on the spot to function with your vehicle at less than the dealership.
When shopping around to replace a transponder key, be sure to get multiple quotes. There are a variety of factors that impact the final cost, including the make and model of your vehicle, whether 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 weigh the benefits of a transponder key versus the cost and ease of use. If you prioritize safety and security, then a transponder keys may be worth the investment in the long in the long run. Additionally, the majority of modern vehicles have an immobilizer that will not allow the car to start if a non-transponder key is used and this is a further reason to think about.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may appear like something from the sci-fi genre Laser cut keys are in fact quite common and provide an extra security measure for vehicles. key replacement car require specialized key cutting equipment and are more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.
Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side the laser cut keys have slits tooled on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder in any way and still function. They are, therefore, more durable and stronger than traditional keys.
In addition they can also be used to open some locks with high security. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that matches with the different car manufacturers' codes. Finding the correct depth is vital as an incorrectly cut blade could damage the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not working shortly after being put into the lock cylinder.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of car keys cut with lasers make them more resistant to copying. Additionally the majority of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to your car. This means that even if someone makes a copy of your car key using a transponder chip, they won't be able to start your car.
Although these additional layers of security might make a laser-cut car key more expensive than other keys, the fact is that they're still much less than purchasing a replacement from your dealership. In addition, locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys faster than the car dealership.
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 harm the key cutting machine or lock cylinder and leave you with a large repair cost. This is the reason it's essential to get your laser cut car key from a trusted supplier that sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a large choice of car key replacement FOB keys for over 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also have laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today and discover how we can help save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of going to a dealership!
Remote Keys
Not too long ago having lost or misplaced keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could call a locksmith, get a replacement and still leave. The cars of today are more technologically advanced and the keys that correspond to them are more difficult to replace. They also are harder for thieves copy. It is now more expensive to replace the key to a car that has been lost.
The cost of replacing a key will differ depending on the kind. For traditional keys you can get a copy made for about $10 at a hardware store or you can get an locksmith from the automotive industry to visit you and make a copy on the spot.
If you have an electronic key, transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder key with remote start, you will need to visit your dealership to have it replaced. This can be expensive and you might need to wait for a long period of time before the manufacturer will send you a new key.
Your car key can cease to function without a clear cause as with other electronic devices. This is often due to extreme heat or cold, but can also be caused from an ineffective battery or the presence of water in the keyfob following rain. If you notice that your car key isn't responding, you should consider trying to reset it before calling an auto locksmith.
It's also important to remember that your key fob can only function only if it's within the range of the vehicle. It's important to always keep your key fob close to you, and never put it in your pocket unless absolutely essential.
Most people lose their car keys when they drop them or lose them. In certain instances this could cause it to break or be stuck in the lock, which is why it's recommended to keep a spare available at all times.
