15 Reasons Not To Overlook Car Key Replacements
Car Key Replacements
If it's a basic lock-and-key keys or a sophisticated fob key, losing one could cost you a lot. It's best to keep one spare key in your wallet.
If you do lose a key, the cheapest solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership might be more expensive, but it is an option worth considering.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older car that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your keys are likely mechanical. Keys that are standard can be made of brass, steel, or a combination between brass and nickel. The keys are cut on the key duplicator, which uses the blank key as a template, and an original key against the opposite side of the machine. The key that was originally used is cut using a special 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 car. These chips are usually located in the head of the key, but can also be located in the ignition. The transponder sends a signal to the car's computer when the key is turned into the ignition. The computer checks the signal and ensures that it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for a stolen vehicle to be started without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match the vehicle won't start. This is a huge benefit that can discourage car keys replacements thieves since the likelihood of someone else starting and driving away with your car are greatly diminished.
The drawback of a transponder key is that it costs more than a traditional flat metal key. This is because the transponder contains a small microchip that is expensive to make and put into the car key. Typically, these kinds of keys can cost of replacement car keys hundreds of dollars if purchased from a dealership.
A locksmith can offer much less expensive and trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has a wide selection of these keys. They can re-program the chip right on the spot to work with your vehicle for only a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
When you are looking to replace a transponder key ensure you request multiple quotes. There are a variety of factors that influence the final price, such as the make and model of your vehicle, whether you have any additional features on your key, such as a remote key-fob, and even where you decide to go to copy it.
Ultimately, you should consider the advantages of a transponder key versus the cost and convenience. Transponder keys may be worth it in the long run, when you value security and safety. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible won't allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Although they may sound like something out of an sci-fi film laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an additional layer of protection for vehicles. They are created using specialized key cutting machines and are harder to duplicate or steal from thieves than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys are different from traditional keys that have grooves on one side. They also have two slits on the sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder in any way, and they still function. They are thus more durable and stronger than traditional keys.
They are also employed as a bonus feature to open certain high-security locks. This is because the slits are placed in a particular depth that is compatible with various codes of the car manufacturers. The right depth is crucial because a blade that is not cut correctly could damage the key cutting machine and cause the key to stop working immediately after being placed into the lock cylinder.
The greater thickness and unique slits on keys made by lasers make them less susceptible to being copied or taken. Additionally some keys contain transponder chips that are unique to the vehicle you're using them on. This means that even if someone copies your car key using a transponder chip they will not be capable of starting your vehicle.
Laser cut car keys may be more expensive however they are cheaper than buying a replacement from the dealership. Additionally, locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys faster than car dealerships.
A car key that is laser cut's quality can make a big difference. A bad blade could cause damage to the key cutting machine or lock cylinder and leave you with a huge repair bill. This is why it's important to purchase your laser-cut car key from a reputable supplier who sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of replacement car key near me car key FOB keys for over 250 different makes and models of automobiles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder keys. Stop by today and see how we can save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealership!
Remote Keys
Not too long ago having lost or misplaced your car keys was not a huge deal. Get a locksmith on the phone to get a new key and leave. Nowadays, however, automobiles are much more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys are harder to replace and even more difficult for thieves to duplicate. This means that when you lose your car key it will be more expensive than before to replace it.
Depending on the type of key that you have, the cost to replace it can vary. For traditional keys you can have an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store, or you can hire an locksmith from the automotive industry to visit you and create a key right there.
If you have an intelligent key, transponder keys with a switchblade or a transponder with remote start, you will have to visit your dealer to have it replaced. This can be very costly and may take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer which can delay your getting back on the road.
Sometimes, as with any other electronic device the car key can stop working for no apparent reason. Often, this is due to extreme heat or cold however, it could also be caused by a bad battery or water in the key fob from rain, or simply deteriorating over time. It's a good idea to reset your car key before calling an auto locksmith in the event that it's not responding.
It's also important to remember that your key fob will only work if it's within range of your 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'll return it quickly.
Most people lose their keys to their car when they drop them or lose them. In some instances this could cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and this is why it's always an ideal idea to have a spare in your possession at all times.