The Advanced Guide To Car Key Replacements
Car Key Replacements
Losing a key can be costly, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a sophisticated key fob. The best way to prevent this is to always have an extra key in your wallet.
If you lose a key, the cheapest alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. Dealerships are more expensive but a solid alternative.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys are likely to be mechanical if you own an old vehicle that doesn't have key fobs. The standard keys are made from steel, brass, or a combination between nickel and brass. Keys are cut using the key duplicator, which makes use of the blank key as a template, and an original key on the opposite side of the machine. The original key is cut using a special cutter to create the copy.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are integrated into the majority of modern cars keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and then start it. 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 transmits an electronic signal that is picked up by the car's computer system. The computer examines the signal and makes sure that it is in line with the correct serial number.
It's almost impossible to start a car without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match the car's signal, it won't start and will remain locked. This is an enormous benefit that helps discourage car thieves since the chances of someone else starting and driving away with your car are greatly decreased.
The downside of transponder keys is that it's more expensive than a standard flat metal key. The transponder is a microchip that is costly to produce and install into a car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer less expensive and more reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries a large assortment of these keys and can even modify the chip to work with your car on the spot for a fraction of price of the dealership.
If you're looking for a transponder key replacement make sure you get multiple quotes. There are many factors that impact the final cost, including the model and make of your car, if you have any additional features on your key, such as a remote key-fob or a remote key-fob, and also where you decide to go to copy it.
Ultimately, you should evaluate the advantages of a transponder-based key against the cost of car key replacement and ease of use. Transponder keys might be beneficial in the long run in the event that you are concerned about safety and protection. A non-transponder car key will not allow the vehicle to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys might look like something from a sci-fi film however they are actually very common. They provide an added layer of security for automobiles. Keys that require specialized key cutting equipment to make and are 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. This allows them to be put into the lock cylinder in either direction, and still operate. This means that they tend to be robust and durable than conventional keys.
As a bonus they can also be used to unlock certain high-security locks. The slits are drilled to a particular depth, which is in line with the codes of the different car manufacturers. It is essential to select the correct depth since a blade that is cut incorrectly could damage the cutting machine, and make the key unable to function once it is put into the lock.
The thicker and more distinctive slits of car keys cut with lasers make them less susceptible to being copied or picked. In addition, many of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that even if a person makes a copy of your car key with transponder chips it won't be capable of starting your car.
Laser-cut car keys might be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from the dealership. Locksmiths can often cut these keys faster than a car dealership.
Another aspect to be aware of is that the quality of a laser cut car key can make a huge difference. The wrong blade can easily harm your key cutting machine or lock cylinder and leave you with a costly repair cost. It is essential to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith that sells the keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a wide range of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different models and brands of vehicles. We also have laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on replacement key for car car fobs without having to go to an auto dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car key or losing it was not a huge deal. Get a locksmith on the phone to get a new key and drive away. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology and keys are more difficult to replace and more difficult for thieves to duplicate. It's becoming more expensive to replace a lost key replacement car car key.
Depending on the type of key you have, the cost to replace it will differ. For keys that are traditional, you can have a copy made for about $10 at a hardware store, or you can ask an automotive locksmith to visit you and make a copy on the spot.
You'll have to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade, or transponder with remote start to the dealer to be replaced. It can be very expensive and could take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer, which could delay getting back on the road.
Your car key might not function for no apparent cause as with other electronic devices. It is usually due to extreme heat or cold however, it can be due to an ineffective battery or the presence of water in the keyfob after rain. It's a good idea to reset your car key prior to calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it's not responding.
You should also be aware that your key fob will only function if you're within the range of the vehicle. This is why it's important to keep your key fob on you at all times, and to not leave it in your pocket unless you are certain that you can return it swiftly.
The most common way to lose the car key is through misplacing it or dropping it. In some cases, this can cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and this is why it's always a good idea to have a spare available at all times.
