Car Key Replacements
If it's a basic lock-and-key key or a more sophisticated fob key, losing it could be costly. The best way to avoid this is to keep one in your wallet.
If you do lose keys, the most affordable solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership is more expensive, but it is a good choice.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older car that doesn't have key fob technology, your car keys are likely mechanical. The standard keys are made of metal, like brass, steel or a combination of brass and nickel. They're cut using a key duplicator machine, with the original key placed against one side of the machine and an unaligned blank key placed next to it to function as a template. The original key is then cut with a specially-designed cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chip integrated into the key that is used to unlock and start the vehicle. The chips are typically placed in the head of the key, but they can also be found in the ignition. When the key is turned on in the ignition, the transponder emits a signal that is received by the car's computer system. The computer analyzes the signal and ensures that it is in line with the correct serial number.
It is almost impossible to start an automobile without the owner's key. If the signal is not in sync the vehicle won't start. This is a huge advantage that helps stop car thieves from taking your car as the chances of someone else starting and driving off with your car are significantly reduced.
Transponder keys cost more than a flat metal key. This is because the transponder is equipped with a tiny microchip that isn't cheap to make and put into a car key. Typically, these types of keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a dealership.
A locksmith can provide cheaper and more trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive selection of keys, and can modify the chip to work with your vehicle in-the-moment for a fraction of cost of a dealership.
If you're looking for a transponder key replacement ensure you request multiple estimates. There are many factors that influence the final price, including the model and make of your vehicle, whether you have additional features on the key such as a remote key fob and where you decide to go to get it copied.
In the end, it is important to weigh the advantages of a transponder versus the cost and convenience. If you value safety and security, then a transponder key may be worth the investment in the long term. Additionally, the majority of modern cars have an immobilizer that will not allow the car to start if a key that is not transponder is used which is another reason to think about.
Laser-Cut Keys
While they might sound like something out of an sci-fi film, laser cut keys are in fact quite common and provide an extra security measure for vehicles. They are created using specially designed key cutting equipment and are much harder to duplicate or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side laser cut car keys have slits tooled on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder either way and still work. As a result, they tend to be more robust and durable than conventional keys.
Additionally they can be used to open certain high-security locks. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that matches with the different car manufacturers' codes. The right depth is vital as an incorrectly cut blade could damage the key cutting machine and cause the key to stop working shortly after being put into the lock cylinder.
The distinctive slits and greater thickness of the car keys laser-cut make them more resistant to being copied. Many of these keys also include a transponder that is unique to your vehicle. This means that even if someone makes a copy of your car key using a transponder chip it won't be capable of starting your vehicle.
Keys for cars cut with lasers may be more expensive however they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from a dealership. In addition, locksmiths are often able to cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.
The quality of a laser-cut car key can make a huge difference. A bad blade could easily damage the machine that cuts keys or your lock cylinder which could result in a costly repair cost. This is the reason it's essential to purchase your laser cut car key from a reliable supplier who sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has an extensive choice of car key replacement FOB keys for more than 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also have laser-cut sidewinder key. Stop by today and see how we can save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of going to a dealer!
Remote i was reading this wasn't long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a huge problem. Call a locksmith to get a new key and leave. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology and keys can be harder to replace and more difficult for thieves to copy. This means that if you lose your car key it could be more expensive than before to replace it.
The cost of replacing a key will vary according to the type. You can have a traditional key made for just $10 at a local hardware store or hire an automotive locksmith who will come to you to make it immediately.
If you have an intelligent key, transponder keys with a switchblade or a transponder with remote start, you'll need to visit your dealership to get it replaced. It can be very expensive and may take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer which will delay your getting back on the road.
Your car key might stop working for no apparent reason as with other electronic devices. It is usually due to extreme heat or cold, but can also be caused from a bad battery or water in the keyfob after rain. It's a good idea to reset your car keys prior to calling an auto locksmith if you find that it is not responding.
It's also important to know that your key fob will only function only if it's within the range of your vehicle. This is why it's important to keep your key fob with you at all times and to not leave it in your pocket unless you are certain that you'll be able to return it promptly.
Most people lose their keys to their car when they drop them or lose keys. In certain instances this could cause it to break or become stuck in the lock, which is why it's an ideal idea to have an extra on hand at all times.