Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be expensive, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a high-end key fob. It's recommended to keep an extra key in your wallet.
If you've lost keys, the most affordable alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. A dealership may be more expensive, but it's an excellent option.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys are likely to be mechanical if you own an older vehicle that doesn't have key fobs. The standard keys are made from steel, brass, or a combination between brass and nickel. Keys are cut using the key duplicator, which makes use of an uncut key as a template and an original key against the opposite side of the machine. The original key is cut with a specialized cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are built into the majority of modern cars keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and start it. These chips can be found in the ignition, or the key head. When replacement key fob car is inserted into the ignition, the transponder transmits the signal to be received by the car's computer system. The computer then examines the signal to verify that it is in line with the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for a stolen car to start without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match the car won't start and remain locked. This is a huge benefit that can deter car thieves as the chances of someone else attempting to start and then driving away with your vehicle are drastically diminished.
The downside of a transponder key is that it is more expensive than a traditional flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder is equipped with a tiny microchip that isn't cheap to produce and install in a car key. These keys are typically expensive when purchased from a dealership for cars.
A locksmith can offer less expensive and secure transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries many of these keys and can even reprogram the chip to work with your car on the spot for a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
If you're looking for a transponder replacement key, be sure to get multiple estimates. There are a variety of factors that impact the final price, including the make and model of your car, whether you have any extra features on the key like a remote key-fob, and even where you decide to go to copy it.
Ultimately, you should evaluate the advantages of a transponder key against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys could be worth it in the long run, when you value security and safety. A car key without a transponder will not allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
While they might appear like something from the sci-fi genre Laser cut keys are actually quite common and offer an additional layer of protection for cars. They require specialized key cutting equipment to make and are much more difficult for thieves to copy 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 in the lock cylinder any way and still function. They are thus more durable and robust than traditional keys.
They can also be employed as a bonus feature to open certain high-security locks. This is because the slits are tooled into a specific depth that matches with the various codes used by car manufacturers. It is crucial to choose the right depth, as an incorrectly-cut blade can damage 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 of keys made by lasers make them less prone to being copied or taken. Some keys include a transponder that is specific to your car. This means that anyone who copies your car key, even if it contains transponder chip they won't be able start your vehicle.
Laser-cut car keys might be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from the dealership. In addition, locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys faster than car dealerships.
A laser-cut car key's quality can make a significant difference. The wrong blade could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys or lock cylinder and leave you with a costly repair cost. This is why it's crucial to get your laser cut car key from a trusted company that sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a large range of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also offer a laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on car fob replacements, without having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
In the past having lost or misplaced your car keys wasn't an issue. Call a locksmith to get a new key and drive away. Today's cars are more technologically advanced and keys that go with them can be harder to replace. They can also be more difficult for thieves to copy. It is now more expensive to replace a lost car key.
Depending on the type of key you own, the cost to replace it can vary. You can purchase an old-fashioned key for $10 at your local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will come to you to create it immediately.
If you have an intelligent key, a transponder key with switchblade, or a transponder key with remote start, you will need to visit your dealership to have it replaced. It can be very expensive, and it may take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer which will delay your getting back on the road.
Sometimes, just like any other electronic device the car key can stop working for no apparent reason. This can be due to extreme cold or heat however, it can also be caused from an ineffective battery or the presence of water in the keyfob after rain. It is recommended to reset your car keys prior to calling an auto locksmith in the event that it is not responding.
You should also be aware that your keyfob will only work if you're within the reach of the vehicle. It's essential to always keep your key fob close to you, and never put it in your pocket unless absolutely essential.
The majority of people lose their car keys by dropping them or misplacing them. In some instances, this can cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and that's why it's always an ideal idea to have an extra key in your possession at all times.