How To Save Money On Car Key Replacements
Car Key Replacements
Losing a key can be costly, regardless of whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a sophisticated key fob. The best way to prevent this is to always keep one in your wallet.
If you do lose keys, the cheapest solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership is more expensive, but it is a good alternative.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older car that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your keys are probably mechanical. These standard keys can be made of steel, brass or a mixture of nickel and brass. They are cut using a key duplicator, with an original key positioned against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned to it to act as an example. The original key is cut using a special cutter to create a copy.
Transponder Keys
The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chips built into the key that is used to unlock and start the vehicle. These chips are usually located in the head of the key, but can also be located in the ignition. When the key is turned in the ignition, the transponder emits the signal to be received by the computer system in the car. The computer checks the signal and makes sure that it is in line with the correct serial number.
It's nearly impossible to start an automobile without the owner's keys. If the signal is not in sync, the vehicle will not start. This is a great benefit to help deter car thefts since it reduces the likelihood of someone else stealing your vehicle.
The disadvantage of transponder keys is that it costs more than a standard flat metal key. The transponder is a chip that is costly to produce and put into the car key. The keys are usually expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer less expensive and reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries many of keys, and can modify the chip to work with your vehicle in-the-moment for a fraction of the cost of a dealership.
Be sure to compare estimates when looking for the replacement car keys price transponder keys. There are a variety of factors that impact the final price, such as the model and make of your car, whether you have any additional features on the key, such as a remote key fob or a remote key-fob, and also where you decide to go to copy it.
In the end, you have consider the advantages of a transponder against the cost and the convenience. Transponder keys could be beneficial in the long run if you prioritize safety and protection. A non-transponder car key won't allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
While they might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an additional security measure for 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. They also have two slits on the sides. This allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either direction while still operating it. They are therefore more durable and thicker than standard keys.
Additionally, they can also be used to open some locks with high security. The slits are tooled to a certain depth, which is in line with the codes of the different automobile manufacturers. Finding the correct depth is vital since a wrongly cut blade could damage the machine that cuts keys and cause the key to stop functioning shortly after it is inserted into the lock cylinder.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of car key replacement cost keys cut with lasers make them more resistant to copying. Many of these keys also contain transponder chip that is specific to your car. This means that even if a person creates a duplicate of your car's key with transponder chips it won't be in a position to start your car.
Laser cut car keys may be more expensive however, they are cheaper than buying a replacement from a dealership. Locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys faster than a car dealership.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the quality of a laser-cut car key could make all the difference. A blade that is not of the right type could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys or your lock cylinder leading to a large repair cost. It is essential to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith that sells them.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different makes and models of vehicles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to see how we can save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could contact an expert locksmith, get an alternative and leave. Modern cars are more advanced in technology and the keys that correspond to them can be harder 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 own, the cost to replace it can vary. You can purchase a traditional key made for $10 at your local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will come to you to make it on the spot.
If you have an electronic key, a transponder key with switchblade, or a transponder key that has remote start, you will have to visit your dealer to have it replaced. This can be very costly and could take a while to order the new car key replacement key from the manufacturer which could delay getting back on the road.
Your car key might not function for no apparent cause as do other electronic devices. This can be due to extreme heat or cold however it could be due to a bad battery or water in the keyfob following rain. If you find that your car key is no responding, you should consider trying to reset it before calling an auto locksmith.
You should also know that your keyfob will only function if you're within the reach of the vehicle. This is why it's crucial to keep your key fob with you at all times and never let it go out of your pocket unless you're sure that you can return it quickly.
The most common way to lose a car key is by losing it or dropping it. In some instances, this can cause it to break or be stuck in the lock and that's why it's an ideal idea to have a spare on hand at all times.
