Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be costly, regardless of whether it's an ordinary lock-and-key or a sophisticated key fob. It's ideal to keep one spare key in your wallet.
If you lose a key, the cheapest solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership can be more expensive, but it is a good alternative.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older car that doesn't use key fob technology, your car keys are likely mechanical. The standard keys are made from steel, brass or a mixture of brass and nickel. They're cut using a key duplicator machine, with the original key placed against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned to it to act as the template. The original key is then cut using a special cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
The majority of modern cars come with a transponder chip built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the car. These chips are usually placed inside the key head, but they can also be found in the ignition. When the key is turned on in the ignition, the transponder sends an electronic signal that is picked up by the car's computer system. The computer then analyzes the signal to make sure it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it almost impossible for stolen vehicles to start without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match the car's signal, it won't start and remain locked. This is a huge advantage that helps to discourage car thieves since the chances of someone else starting and driving off with your car are greatly decreased.
The drawback of transponder keys is that it costs more than a traditional flat metal key. This is because the transponder is equipped with a tiny microchip that is expensive to produce and install in the car key. The keys are usually expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer less expensive and secure transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has an extensive selection of these keys and will program the chip right on the spot, allowing it to work with your car at a fraction the cost of the dealership.
Make sure to compare estimates when looking for a replacement transponder key. The final cost is determined by many factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle, the extra features you have on the key (such as a remote-control key fob), and even the location you decide to have it copied.
In the end, it is important consider the advantages of a transponder versus the cost and the convenience. If you value security and safety, then a transponder key may be worth the investment in the long in the long run. A car key without a transponder won't allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys may sound like something from a sci-fi flick however they are actually fairly common. They provide an added layer of security to cars. Keys that require special key cutting equipment to make and are much harder for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys differ from traditional keys that have grooves on one side. car key replacements have two slits on the sides. This allows keys to be inserted into the lock cylinder either direction, and still operate. They are thus more durable and stronger than traditional keys.
They can also be utilized as a bonus to open high-security locks. The slits are drilled to a particular depth, which is in line with the codes of the different automobile manufacturers. Getting the right depth is vital since a wrongly cut blade can damage the machine that cuts keys and cause the key to stop working immediately after being put into the lock cylinder.
The greater thickness and unique slits of keys made by lasers make them less prone to being copied or picked. In addition some keys have transponder chips that are unique to the vehicle you're using them on. This means that even if a person copies your car key using a transponder chip, they won't be in a position to start your car.
Although these extra layers of security may make a laser cut car key more expensive than other kinds, the fact is that they're still cheaper than purchasing a replacement from your dealership. Locksmiths often cut these keys more quickly than dealerships selling cars.
A car key that is laser cut's quality can make a big difference. A bad blade could damage the machine that cuts keys or lock cylinder, leaving you with a large repair cost. It's vital to purchase your laser-cut car keys from an auto locksmith who sells the 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 sidewinder keys laser-cut. Visit us today to see how we can help you save money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing your car key or losing it was not a big issue. You could contact a locksmith, get an alternative and leave. The cars of today are more technologically advanced, and keys that are compatible with them can be harder to replace. They can also be harder for thieves copy. This means that if you lose your car key it will be more costly than ever to get it replaced.
The cost of replacing a key will differ according to the kind. You can get an old-fashioned key for $10 at your local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will come to you to make it immediately.
If you have a smart key, a transponder key with a switchblade, or a transponder with remote start, you will have to visit your dealer to have it replaced. This can be expensive, and you might need to wait for a long time before the manufacturer can send you an alternative key.
The car key may cease to function without a clear reason as do other electronic devices. This can be due to extreme cold or heat, but can also be caused from a bad battery or water in the keyfob after rain. It's worth resetting your car key before calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it's not responding.
You should also be aware that your key fob will only work if you're within the range of the vehicle. It's important to always keep your key fob with you, and never let it go out of your pocket unless absolutely necessary.
The majority of people lose their car keys by dropping them or misplacing keys. In some cases this could cause it to break or get stuck in the lock, which is why it's always recommended to keep a spare available at all times.