Car Key Replacements
Losing a key can be costly, whether it's a standard lock-and-key or a sophisticated key fob. The best way to prevent this is to always keep one in your wallet.
The most affordable option is to contact an auto locksmith if you have lost your key. A dealership is more expensive, but it is a good alternative.
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 of steel, brass, or a combination between nickel and brass. Keys are cut using a key duplicator, which uses the blank key as a template and an original key on the opposite side of the machine. The original key is then cut with a specially-designed cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chip integrated into the key that can be used to unlock and start the car. The chips are located in the ignition or on the key head. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder sends a signal that is received by the car's computer system. The computer analyzes the signal and ensures that it matches the correct serial number.
It is almost impossible to start cars without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match the vehicle won't start. This is an excellent benefit to help deter car thefts, as it lowers the risk of someone else driving off with your vehicle.
The disadvantage of a transponder key is that it costs more than a standard flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder contains a small microchip that's expensive to manufacture and then install into a car key. The keys are usually expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can provide more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive selection of keys, and can modify the chip to work with your vehicle on-the-spot at a fraction of the cost of a dealership.
When shopping around for a transponder replacement key ensure you request multiple quotes. The final cost is determined by a variety of factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, the additional features you can get on the key (such as a remote control key-fob) and even the location you decide to have it copied.
In the end, you need consider the advantages of a transponder against the expense and convenience. If you are concerned about security and safety, then a transponder keys might be worth the investment in the long term. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible will not allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may sound like something out of an sci-fi film Laser cut keys are actually quite common and offer an additional layer of security for vehicles. They are created using special key cutting machines and are harder to duplicate or steal from thieves than traditional cut keys.
Contrary to traditional keys, which have grooves cut into one side, laser cut car keys feature slits that are tooled on both sides. This allows keys to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either direction and still operate it. They are therefore more durable and thicker than traditional keys.
Additionally, they can also 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 different car manufacturers' codes. It is important to get the correct depth as cutting the blade incorrectly can cause damage to the cutting machine and cause the key not to work after it has been inserted into the lock.
The unique slits and increased thickness of laser-cut car keys make them more resistant to being copied. Furthermore the majority of these keys contain transponder chips that are unique to your car. This means that when someone copies your car key even if it contains transponder chips they won't be able start your vehicle.
vehicle key replacement for cars cut with lasers may be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from the dealership. Locksmiths are able to cut these keys faster than dealerships for cars.
Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser-cut car key can make all the difference. A bad blade could easily damage the key cutting machine or the cylinder of your lock, leaving you with an expensive repair bill. This is why it's important to purchase your laser cut car key from a reliable supplier who sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a large range of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different models and makes of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to see how we can save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of having to go to a dealership!
Remote Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a huge issue. Get a locksmith on the phone to get a new key and drive away. The cars of today are more technologically advanced and keys that go with them may be more difficult to replace. They also are harder for thieves copy. It's now more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.
Depending on the type of key you have, the cost to replace it will vary. For traditional keys you can get a copy made for about $10 at a hardware store, or you can hire an automotive locksmith to come to you and make one on the spot.
If you have an intelligent key, transponder key with switchblade, or a transponder key with remote start, you will have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This can be very costly and could take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer, which could delay getting back on the road.
Like any other electronic device, your car key will cease to function for no apparent reason. This is often due to extreme heat or cold, but can also be due to an ineffective battery or the presence of water in the keyfob from rain. It's worth resetting your car key before calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it is not responding.
You should also know that your key fob can only function if you are within the reach of the vehicle. It's important to always keep your key fob close to you and never let it go out of your pocket unless required.
The most common method of losing keys to cars is not locating it or dropping it. In some cases this could cause it to break or get stuck in the lock, which is why it's recommended to keep a spare on hand at all times.