Car Key Replacements
Losing a key can be expensive, whether it's a standard lock-and-key or a high-end key fob. It's best to keep a spare key in your wallet.
The most affordable option is to contact an auto locksmith if you have lost your key. A dealership might be more expensive, but it is a good choice.
Mechanical Keys
Your car keys are likely to be mechanical if you have an old vehicle that doesn't have key fobs. Keys of this type are made of metal, like brass, steel or a combination of nickel and brass. They are cut using a key duplicator machine, with the original key placed against one side of the machine, and a blank key aligned to it to serve as an example. The original key is then cut with a specialized cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chip integrated into the key which is used to unlock and start the car. These chips are usually placed in the head of the key, but they can also be found in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder sends the signal to be received by the computer system in the car. The computer analyzes the signal and makes sure that it matches the correct serial number.
It's almost impossible to start an automobile without the owner's key. If the signal doesn't match, the car will not start and remain locked. This is an excellent benefit to deter car thefts as it lowers the risk of someone else stealing your vehicle.
The downside of transponder keys is that it costs more than a standard flat metal key. This is because the transponder contains a small microchip that isn't cheap to produce and install in the car key. Keys like these are usually expensive when purchased from a dealership for cars.
A locksmith can provide more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. replacement key car and Security carries an extensive selection of keys, and they can modify the chip to work with your vehicle on the spot at a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
Make sure to compare estimates when looking for a replacement transponder key. There are a variety of factors that influence the final cost, including the model and make of your vehicle, whether you have additional features on the key, like a remote key-fob and the location you choose to get it copied.
In the end, it is important to weigh the advantages of a transponder in comparison to the cost and the convenience. Transponder keys might be beneficial in the long run when you value security and safety. 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 offer an extra layer of protection for cars. These keys are created with specially designed key cutting equipment and are much harder to copy or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys are different from traditional keys that have grooves on one side. They also have cut-outs on both sides. This allows them to be put into the lock cylinder in any direction and still operate it. In the end, they tend to be more sturdier and thicker than traditional keys.
They can also be utilized as a bonus to open high-security locks. The slits are drilled to a particular depth, which is in line with the codes of various car manufacturers. Getting the right depth is essential because a blade that is not cut correctly can damage the machine that cuts keys and cause the key to stop working shortly after being inserted into the lock cylinder.
The thicker and more distinctive slits on car keys cut with lasers make them less prone to being copied or picked. Some keys include a transponder that is unique to your car. This means that when someone copies your car keys, even if it contains transponder chips it will not be able to start your car.
While these extra layers of security could make a laser cut car key more expensive than other kinds however, the reality is that they're still cheaper than getting a new replacement from your dealership. Locksmiths can often cut keys faster than car dealerships.
The quality of a laser-cut car key can make a huge difference. The wrong blade could cause damage to the key cutting machine or lock cylinder and leave you with a huge repair cost. This is why it's important to get your laser cut car key from a trusted supplier who sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different models and makes of vehicles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder key replacements. Visit us today to see how we can help save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealership!
Remote Keys
In the past having lost or misplaced keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could call a locksmith, get an alternative and drive away. Today's cars are more technologically advanced, and the keys that correspond to them can be harder to replace. They are also harder for thieves copy. It is now more expensive to replace the key to a car that has been lost.
The cost of replacing a key will vary according to the kind. For traditional keys you can have a copy made for about $10 at a hardware shop, or you can hire an automotive locksmith to come to you and create a key right there.
If you have a smart key, transponder keys with a switchblade, or a transponder key with remote start, you'll be required to visit your local dealer to have it replaced. This can be expensive and you might need to wait a long time before the manufacturer can send you a new key.
Sometimes, just like any other electronic device keys for cars will stop working for no apparent reason. Usually, this is due to extreme cold or heat however, it could also be due to an ineffective battery, water in the key fob due to rain or simply wearing out over time. If you find that your car key isn't responding, you should consider trying to reset it first before contacting an auto locksmith.
It's also important to understand that your key fob will only function only if it's within the range 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'll be able to return it quickly.
The most common way to lose a car key is by misplacing it or dropping it. This can cause the key to break or get stuck in the lock. It's a good idea to always have an extra.