11 Ways To Completely Revamp Your Car Key Replacements
Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be costly, whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a more sophisticated key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep an extra key in your wallet.
If you do lose keys, the most affordable alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. A dealership may be more costly, but it's a good choice.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older vehicle that doesn't have key fob technology, your car keys are likely mechanical. Keys of this type are made of metal, like steel, brass or a mixture of brass and nickel. The keys are cut on a key duplicator, which utilizes a blank key as a template and an original key on the other side of the machine. The original key is then cut with a specialized cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
The majority of modern cars come with a transponder chip built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the vehicle. These chips are usually placed in the head of the key, however they could also be placed in the ignition. The transponder transmits signals to the car's computer when the key is inserted into the ignition. The computer examines the signal and ensures it matches the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for stolen vehicles to start without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match the car's signal, it won't start and remain locked. This is a great benefit to deter car thefts since it lowers the risk of someone else stealing your vehicle.
A transponder key costs more than a regular metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder contains a small microchip that's expensive to manufacture and then install into a car key. The keys are usually expensive when purchased from a dealership for cars.
A locksmith can offer much cheaper and more trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys and will re-program the chip right on the spot to function with your vehicle at a fraction the cost of the dealership.
Make sure to compare estimates when looking for a replacement transponder key. The final cost for replacement car key will be influenced by a variety of factors, including the model and make of your vehicle, any additional features you have on the key (such as a remote-control key fob), and even the location you select to have it copied.
In the end, you need to weigh the benefits of a transponder key against the cost and convenience. Transponder keys may be worth it in the long run when you value safety and protection. In addition, most modern cars have an immobilizer that will not allow them to start if a non-transponder keys is utilized, so this is another reason to think about.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys might sound like something from a sci-fi film However, they are actually quite common. They provide an additional security layer to automobiles. These keys are made with specially designed key cutting equipment and are more difficult 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 cut-outs on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder any way and still work. In the end, they tend to be more robust and durable than conventional keys.
As a bonus they can also be used to open some high-security locks. The slits are made to a particular depth, which matches the codes of the different car manufacturers. Finding the correct depth is essential as an incorrectly cut blade could damage the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not working immediately after being put into the lock cylinder.
The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of car keys cut with lasers make them more resistant to being copied. A lot of these keys include a transponder that is unique to your vehicle. This means that even if someone creates a duplicate of your car key with transponder chips it won't be capable of starting your vehicle.
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 more quickly than dealerships for cars.
A laser-cut car key's quality can make a huge difference. The wrong blade can easily damage the machine that cuts keys or lock cylinder, leaving you with a large repair bill. This is why it's important to get your laser cut car key from a trusted supplier who sells them to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a variety of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different makes and models of vehicles, in addition to laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to see how we can help save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could call a locksmith, get an alternative and leave. Nowadays, however, automobiles are much more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys can be harder to replace and more difficult for thieves to copy. It is now more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.
The cost of replacing a key will differ depending on the type. You can get traditional keys for $10 at a local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will visit you to create it on the spot.
If you have a smart key, transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder with remote start, you will have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. It can be costly and you might need to wait a long period of time before the manufacturer will send you a new key.
Your car key might cease to function without a clear cause as do other electronic devices. This is often due to extreme cold or heat however it could also be caused from an ineffective battery or the presence of water in the keyfob following rain. It's worth resetting your car keys prior to calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it is 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 the reason it's essential to keep your key fob with your person at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you're certain that you'll be able to return it swiftly.
A majority of people lose their car keys when they drop them or lose keys. In certain instances, this can cause it to break or get stuck in the lock and that's why it's always recommended to keep a spare in your possession at all times.