Why We Enjoy Car Key Replacements And You Should Too

Car Key Replacements

Whether it's a simple lock-and-key key or a more sophisticated fob key, losing one can be costly. The best way to avoid this is to always have an extra key in your wallet.

If you do lose a key, the cheapest alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. A dealership could be more expensive, but it's an excellent option.

Mechanical Keys

Your car keys will likely be mechanical if you own an old car that doesn't use key fobs. The standard keys are made of steel, brass or a mix of brass and nickel. They are cut with the key duplicator machine using an original key set against one side of the machine and an unaligned blank key placed next to it to function as the template. The original key is cut with a special cutter to create an exact duplicate.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips are integrated into most newer cars' keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and start it. The chips are located in the ignition or on the key head. The transponder transmits signals to the car's computer when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer then analyzes the signal to make sure it matches the correct serial number.

This makes it nearly impossible for a stolen vehicle to be started without the owner's keys. If the signal is not in sync the vehicle won't start. This is a great benefit to help deter mobile car key replacement thefts since it reduces the likelihood of someone else stealing your vehicle.

A transponder key costs more than a standard metal key. The transponder is a chip that is expensive to create and integrate into a car key. These keys are typically expensive when bought from a dealership.

A locksmith can offer more reliable and affordable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has a wide selection of these keys and can re-program the chip on the spot to work with your vehicle for less than the dealership.

Be sure to check out quotes when shopping for the replacement transponder keys. There are many variables that affect the final price, such as the model and make of your vehicle, whether you have additional features on the key, such as a remote key fob or a remote key-fob, and also where you decide to go to get it copied.

In the end, you need consider the advantages of a transponder against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys might be worth it in the long run, when you value security and safety. A car key that isn't transponder-compatible will not allow the vehicle to start.

Laser-Cut Keys

While they might seem like something from an sci-fi film laser cut keys are actually quite common and offer an additional layer of protection for cars. These keys require specialized key cutting equipment and are much more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.

Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side the laser cut keys have slits tooled on both sides. This allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in any direction, and still operate. In the end, they are generally sturdier and thicker than traditional keys.

They are also used as a bonus to open certain high-security locks. This is because the slits are tooled into a specific depth that matches with the different car manufacturers' codes. It is essential to select the right depth, as an incorrectly-cut blade can damage the cutting machine, and cause the key not to function after it has been inserted into the lock.

The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of car keys cut with lasers make them more resistant to being copied. In addition, many of these keys are equipped with transponder chips which are unique to your car. This means that even if a person copies your car's key with transponder chips it won't be able to start your car.

Laser-cut car keys might be more expensive however, they are cheaper than buying a replacement from the dealership. Locksmiths are able to cut keys faster than dealerships for cars.

Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser-cut car key can make all the difference. The wrong blade can easily harm the machine that cuts keys or lock cylinder and leave you with a large repair bill. This is why it's crucial to get your laser cut car key from a reputable company that sells keys to auto locksmiths.

Bibens Ace South Burlington has a wide selection of replacement car keys replacement cost key FOB keys for more than 250 different models and brands of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to see how we can save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealership!

Remote Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could call a locksmith, get a replacement and still leave. Modern cars are more technologically advanced and keys that go with them can be harder to replace. They also are more difficult for thieves to copy. It is now more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.

Depending on the type of key that you have, the cost to replace it will vary. For traditional keys you can get an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store, or you can ask an automotive locksmith to visit you and make one right there.

If you have a smart key, transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder key that has remote start, you'll have to visit your dealer to have it replaced. This can be expensive, and you may have to wait a long time for the manufacturer to send you the new key.

The car key may stop working for no apparent reason as with other electronic car key replacement devices. Most often, this happens due to extreme cold or heat but it could also be due to a bad battery, water in the key fob from rain, or simply deteriorating over time. If you notice that your car key isn't longer responding, it's worth trying to reset it before calling an auto locksmith.

It's also important to understand that your key fob can only function if it's within range of your vehicle. This is the reason it's essential to keep your key fob on your person at all times, and to not leave it in your pocket unless you're sure that you'll return it quickly.

The majority of people lose their keys to their car by dropping them or misplacing keys. This could result in the key breaking or get stuck in the lock. It's an ideal idea to have a spare.