Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be expensive, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a more sophisticated key fob. It's best to keep an extra key in your wallet.
The most affordable option is to call an auto locksmith in the event that you lose your key. Dealerships are more expensive, but it is a good choice.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older car that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your car keys are probably mechanical. Keys of this type are made from metal like steel, brass or a combination of nickel and brass. They are cut with a key duplicator, with the original key placed against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned with it to serve as the template. The original key is cut using an specialized cutter to make the duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chips built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the vehicle. The chips are located in the ignition or on the key head. The transponder transmits an electronic signal to the computer in the car when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer examines the signal and makes sure that it matches with the correct serial number.
This makes it almost impossible for stolen vehicles to be started without owner's keys. If the signal does not match the vehicle's signal, it will not start. This is an excellent benefit to help deter car thefts since it lowers the risk of someone else stealing your vehicle.
Transponder keys cost more than a flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder is equipped with a tiny microchip that's expensive to produce and install in a car key. The keys are usually expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer more reliable and affordable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries a large assortment of keys, and can reprogramme the chip to work with your vehicle on the spot at a fraction of the cost of a dealership.
Make sure to compare estimates when looking for a replacement transponder key. There are many factors that impact the final price, including the model and make of your car, if you have additional features on your key, like a remote key-fob and the location you choose to copy it.
In the end, you have to weigh the advantages of a transponder versus the cost and convenience. Transponder keys may be worth it in the long run, if you prioritize safety and protection. In addition, most modern vehicles have an immobilizer that won't allow them to start if a non-transponder key is used, so this is another factor to consider.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys might look like something from a sci-fi flick However, they are actually fairly common. They provide an additional layer of security to automobiles. These keys are made with specialized key cutting machines and are harder to duplicate or steal from thieves than traditional cut keys.
Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side laser cut car keys feature slits that are tooled on both sides. They can be inserted into the lock cylinder either way and still work. They are thus more durable and robust than conventional keys.
As a bonus, they can be used to open some locks with high security. This is due to the slits being tooled into a specific depth that matches with the various codes of the car manufacturers. The right depth is essential since a wrongly cut blade could cause damage to the key cutting machine and cause the key to stop functioning shortly after it is inserted into the lock cylinder.
The distinctive slits and greater thickness of the car keys laser-cut make them more resistant to being copied. In addition, many of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that anyone who copies your car key even if it contains transponder chips it will not be able to start your car.
Although these additional layers of security may make a laser-cut car key more expensive than other types but the truth is that they're still cheaper than getting a new replacement from your dealership. Additionally, locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys faster than a car dealership.
Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser-cut car key could make all the difference. The wrong blade can easily harm the key cutting machine 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 supplier that sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a wide selection of replacement car key fob keys for over 250 different makes and models of vehicles, in addition to laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today and discover how we can help save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of having to go to a dealership!
Remote key replacement for car cost of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could call an locksmith, receive an alternate and then drive away. Today, however, cars are much more technologically advanced and keys are harder to replace and more difficult for thieves to 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 according to the type. For keys that are traditional, you can have one made for $10 at a hardware store, or you can get an automotive locksmith to visit you and make one on the spot.
If you have a smart key, transponder key with a switchblade, or a transponder key that has remote start, you will be required to visit your local dealer to have it replaced. This can be quite costly and could take a while to obtain the new key from the manufacturer, which could delay getting back on the road.
Sometimes, just like any other electronic device the car key can cease to function for no apparent reason. Often, this is due to extreme heat or cold, but it can also be due to an ineffective battery or key fob from rain, or simply deteriorating over time. If you find that your car key is no responding, you should consider trying to reset it before contacting an auto locksmith.
You should also be aware that your keyfob will only function if you're within the reach of the vehicle. This is the reason it's essential to keep your key fob with you at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you're certain that you'll be able to return it swiftly.
The most common way to lose keys to cars is not locating it or dropping it. This could result in the key breaking or become stuck in the lock. It's an ideal idea to have an extra.