Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key could be costly, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a high-end key fob. The best way to avoid this is to keep an extra key in your wallet.
The most affordable option is to contact an auto locksmith in the event that you've lost your keys. A dealership can be more expensive, but is a great choice.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older car that doesn't have key fob technology, your keys are probably mechanical. Keys that are standard can be made of steel, brass, or a combination between brass and nickel. They are cut with a key duplicator, using an original key set against one side of the machine, and a blank key aligned with it to act as a template. The original key is cut using a special cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chip built into the key that is used to unlock and start the car. The chips are located in the ignition or the key head. The transponder sends an electronic signal to the computer of the car when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer examines the signal and ensures that it matches with the correct serial number.
It's almost impossible to start an automobile without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match the car won't start and will remain locked. This is a great benefit to help deter car thefts, as it lowers the risk of someone else stealing your vehicle.
The downside of transponder keys is that it's more expensive than a standard flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder has a tiny microchip that isn't cheap to manufacture and then install into a car key. These keys are typically expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can provide less expensive and trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys. They can program the chip on the spot to work with your car at a fraction the cost of the dealership.
When shopping around to replace a transponder key, be sure to get multiple quotes. There are many factors that impact the final price, including the make and model of your vehicle, whether you have any extra features on the key, like a remote key-fob and where you decide to go to get it copied.
Ultimately, you should evaluate the advantages of a transponder key against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys could be beneficial in the long run when you value safety and protection. A non-transponder car key will not allow the vehicle to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may appear like something from a sci-fi movie Laser cut keys are in fact quite common and provide an additional layer of security for cars. Keys that require special key cutting equipment and are much more difficult for thieves to copy or pick 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. They can be inserted into the lock cylinder either way and still work. In the end, they tend to be sturdier and thicker than traditional keys.
They can also be employed as a bonus feature to open certain high-security locks. The slits are drilled to a certain depth that matches the codes of the different automobile manufacturers. It is essential to select the correct depth as a blade that is cut incorrectly could damage the cutting machine, and cause the key not to function after it has been inserted into the lock.
The greater thickness and unique slits of car keys cut with lasers make them less susceptible to being copied or taken. Furthermore, many of these keys are equipped with transponder chips which are unique to your car. This means that if someone copies your car keys, even if it's equipped with transponder chips they won't be able to start your vehicle.
Although these additional layers of security could make a laser cut car key more expensive than other types however, the reality is that they're still much less than purchasing a replacement from your dealer. In addition, locksmiths can often cut these keys faster than car dealerships.
Another aspect to be aware of is that the quality of a laser-cut car key can make all the difference. The wrong type of blade can easily harm the machine that cuts keys or your lock cylinder, leaving you with an expensive repair cost. This is the reason it's essential to get your laser cut car key from a reputable supplier that sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different makes and models of vehicles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder keys. Stop by today and see how we can help save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of having to go to a dealership!
Remote replacement key fob car wasn't that long ago that a car key was lost or losing it was not a big problem. You could contact an expert locksmith, get an alternative and leave. Modern cars are more technologically advanced and the keys that correspond to them are more difficult to replace. They are also difficult to steal. It's becoming more expensive to replace a lost car key.
Depending on the type of key that you have, the price to replace it will differ. You can purchase an old-fashioned key for just $10 at a local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will visit you and make the key immediately.
If you have an intelligent key, a transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder with remote start, you'll need to visit your dealership to have it replaced. This can be expensive and you might have to wait a long time before the manufacturer can send you a new key.
Like any other electronic device, your car key will stop working for no apparent reason. This is often due to extreme cold or heat however it could also be due to an unsatisfactory battery or water in the keyfob after rain. If you notice that your car key isn't longer responding, it's worth trying to reset it before calling an auto locksmith.
It's also important to know that your key fob will only work if it's within range of the car. It's essential to always keep your key fob close to you and not let it go out of your pocket unless absolutely essential.
A majority of people lose their keys to their car by dropping them or misplacing keys. This could cause the key to break or get stuck in the lock. It's recommended to always have an extra.