Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be expensive, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a more sophisticated key fob. auto key replacement cost to prevent this is to always keep a spare in your wallet.
If you've lost a key, the cheapest option is to find an auto locksmith. A dealership might be more expensive, but it is an option worth considering.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older car that doesn't have key fob technology, your car keys are probably mechanical. The standard keys are made of metal, like steel, brass or a combination of brass and nickel. The keys are cut on the key duplicator, which makes use of an uncut key as a template, and an original key placed on the opposite side of the machine. The original key is cut with an specialized cutter to make a copy.
Transponder Keys
The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chip built into the key that is used to unlock and start the car. The chips are typically placed in the head of the key, but can also be located in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder transmits a signal that is received by the computer system in the car. The computer then checks the signal to make sure it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it almost impossible for a stolen car to be started without owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match the vehicle won't start. This is a huge advantage that helps deter car thieves as the odds of someone else starting and driving away with your vehicle are drastically diminished.
A transponder key costs more than a standard metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder contains a small microchip that's expensive to make and put into a car key. These keys are typically expensive when bought from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries a large assortment of keys, and they can reprogramme the chip to work with your car on-the-spot for a fraction of cost of the dealership.
Make sure to compare prices when you are looking for the replacement transponder keys. There are a variety of variables that affect the final price, including the model and make of your vehicle, whether you have additional features on the key like a remote key-fob or a remote key-fob, and also the location you choose to get it copied.
In the end, you have to weigh the benefits of a transponder versus the expense and convenience. Transponder keys might be beneficial in the long run when you value safety and protection. Additionally, many modern vehicles have an immobilizer that will not allow the car to start if a non-transponder key is used and this is a further reason to think about.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys may appear like something from a sci-fi film, but they are quite common. They add an extra layer of security to cars. These keys are made with specialized key cutting machines 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 cut on both sides. They can be inserted into the lock cylinder any way and still work. As a result, they tend to be more sturdier and thicker than traditional keys.
Additionally they can be used to open some high-security locks. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that is compatible with various codes used by car manufacturers. It is crucial to choose the right depth, as an incorrectly-cut blade can cause damage to the cutting machine and make the key unable to function after it is placed into the lock.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of laser-cut car keys make them more resistant to copying. Some keys include a transponder that is specific to your car. This means that even if someone creates a duplicate of your car key using transponder chips it won't be capable of starting your car.
Although these extra layers of security might 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 dealer. In addition, locksmiths can often cut these keys faster than car dealerships.
Another important thing to remember 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 easily damage the key cutting machine or the cylinder of your lock, leading to a large repair bill. This is why it's crucial to get your laser cut car key from a trusted company that sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a large selection of replacement car key FOB keys that fit more than 250 different models and brands of vehicles. We also have laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today to see how we can help save you money on car key fob replacements without the hassle of going to a dealership!
Remote Keys
It wasn't too long ago that a car key was lost or losing it was not a huge problem. You could contact an locksmith, receive an alternate and then drive away. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and the corresponding keys are more difficult to replace and more difficult for thieves to copy. It's becoming more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.
The cost of replacing a key can vary according to the kind. For traditional keys you can get one made for $10 at a hardware store or you can hire an automotive locksmith to visit you and make one on the spot.
If you own an electronic key, transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder with remote start, you'll have to visit your dealer to have it replaced. This can be quite costly and could take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer which will delay your getting back on the road.
Your car key might cease to function without a clear cause, just like other electronic devices. This is often due to extreme cold or heat however, it can also be due to a bad battery or water in the keyfob after rain. If you find that your car key isn't responding, it's worth trying to reset it before calling an auto locksmith.
It is important to know that your keyfob will only function if you are within the range of the vehicle. It's essential to always keep your key fob with you and not take it out of your pocket unless essential.
The most common way to lose a car key is by losing it or dropping it. In some cases, this can cause it to break or get stuck in the lock and this is why it's always an ideal idea to have an extra in your possession at all times.