Car Key Replacements
If it's a basic lock-and-key keys or a sophisticated fob key, losing it could cost you big time. The best way to avoid this is to always keep one in your wallet.
If you do lose keys, the cheapest option is to find an auto locksmith. A dealership is more expensive but a solid alternative.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older vehicle that doesn't have key fob technology, your keys are likely mechanical. The standard keys are made of brass, steel or a mixture of brass and nickel. They are cut with a key duplicator, with the original key placed against one side of the machine, and an unaligned blank key placed next to it to act as the template. The original key is cut with a specific cutter to create the copy.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are incorporated into the majority of modern cars keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and then start it. These chips are usually placed in the key head but can also be located in the ignition. The transponder sends an electronic signal to the computer in the car when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer examines the signal and ensures it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it almost impossible for a stolen car to be started without the owner's keys. If the signal isn't compatible, the car will not start and will remain locked. This is a great benefit to deter car thefts as it decreases the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle.
The disadvantage of a transponder key is that it's more expensive than a standard flat metal key. The transponder is a microchip that is expensive to manufacture and put into a car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars if purchased from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer more reliable and affordable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has a wide selection of these keys. They can program the chip on the spot to function with your car at only a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
Be sure to check out prices when you are looking for an alternative transponder key. The final price is influenced by many factors, such as the model and make of your vehicle, the extra features you can get on the key (such as a remote control key-fob) and the location where you choose to copy it.
In the end, you need to weigh the benefits of a transponder versus the expense and convenience. If car key replacement are concerned about safety and security and security, then a transponder key could be worth the cost in the long in the long run. In addition, most modern cars have an immobilizer that doesn't allow them to start if a key that is not transponder is utilized, so this is another factor to consider.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may appear like something from the sci-fi genre Laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an additional security measure for vehicles. They require specialized key cutting equipment to make and are more difficult for thieves to copy or pick 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 in the lock cylinder either way, and they still function. This means that they tend to be robust and durable than conventional keys.
They can also be used as a bonus to open certain high-security locks. This is due to the slits being tooled into a specific depth that is compatible with various codes of the car manufacturers. Getting the right depth is essential as an incorrectly cut blade can damage the key cutting machine and result in the key not working shortly after being put into the lock cylinder.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of the car keys laser-cut make them more resistant to copying. In addition the majority of these keys contain transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that if someone copies your car keys, even if it's equipped with transponder chips 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. Locksmiths are able to cut keys faster than car dealerships.
Another aspect to be aware of 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 bill. It is essential to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith for autos who sells keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of car key FOB replacement keys for over 250 different models and makes of automobiles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder key replacements. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on replacement car fobs, without having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
Not so long ago, misplacing or even losing your car keys was not a huge deal. Contact a locksmith for a new key and then drive away. Today's cars are more advanced in technology and keys that go with them are more difficult to replace. They also are 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 vary depending on the kind. You can purchase traditional keys for just $10 at a local hardware store or employ an automotive locksmith who will come to you to make it immediately.
If you own an intelligent key, transponder key with a switchblade, or a transponder with remote start, you will have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This can be expensive and you may have to wait a long period of time before the manufacturer will send you an alternative key.
Your car key might not function for no apparent reason, just like other electronic devices. Most often, this happens due to extreme heat or cold, but it can also be due to a bad battery, water in the key fob from rain or simply deteriorating over time. If you find that your car key isn't responding, you should consider trying to reset it first before calling an auto locksmith.
It's also important to understand that your key fob will only function if it's within range of your vehicle. This is why it's important to keep your key fob on you at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you are certain that you'll return it swiftly.
The most common method of losing a car key is by losing it or dropping it. This could result in the key breaking or get stuck in the lock. It's an ideal idea to have an extra.