If You ve Just Purchased Car Key Replacements ... Now What

Car Key Replacements

The loss of a key could be costly, regardless of whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a sophisticated key fob. It's recommended to keep an extra key in your wallet.

The cheapest solution is to contact an auto locksmith if you lose your key. Dealerships are more expensive but a solid option.

Mechanical Keys

If you have an older car that doesn't use key fob technology, replacement car key fobs your keys are likely mechanical. These standard keys can be made of 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 placed on the opposite side of the machine. The original key is cut using a specific cutter to create an exact copy.

Transponder Keys

Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chip built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the car. The chips are located in the ignition or on the key head. The transponder sends signals to the computer in the car when the key is inserted into the ignition. The computer examines the signal and makes sure that it is in line with the correct serial number.

This makes it virtually impossible for stolen vehicles to start without the owner's keys. If the signal isn't compatible the car won't start and will remain locked. This is a huge benefit that can deter car thieves as the chances of someone else starting and driving off with your car are greatly diminished.

The drawback of transponder keys is that it's more expensive than a traditional flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder contains a small microchip that is expensive to make and put into a car key. The keys are usually expensive when purchased from a car dealership.

A locksmith can offer less expensive and more secure transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries many of keys, and they can reprogram the chip to work with your car on the spot for a fraction of the cost of the dealership.

Be sure to compare estimates when looking for the replacement transponder keys. The final price is influenced by many factors, including the model and make of your vehicle, any additional features you can get on the key (such as a remote control key-fob) and even the location you decide to copy it.

In the end, you need to evaluate the advantages of a transponder key versus the cost and ease of use. If you are concerned about security and safety, then a transponder key may be worth the investment in the long in the long run. In addition, most modern cars have an immobilizer that won't allow the car to start if a key that is not transponder is used which is another aspect to take into consideration.

Laser-Cut Keys

Although they may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie Laser cut keys are actually quite common and offer an additional layer of protection for cars. They are created using specially designed key cutting equipment and are harder to copy or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.

Laser cut car keys differ from traditional keys, which have grooves on one side. They also have cut-outs on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder in any way, and they still function. They are, therefore, more durable and stronger than traditional keys.

They can also be employed as a bonus feature to open high-security locks. This is due to the slits being fitted into a certain depth that is compatible with different car manufacturers' codes. The right depth is crucial as an incorrectly cut blade can damage the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not working shortly after being inserted into the lock cylinder.

The distinctive slits and greater thickness of the car keys laser-cut make them more resistant to copying. Many of these keys also contain transponder chip that is specific to your car. This means that even if a person creates a duplicate of your car key with a transponder chip, they won't be capable of starting your vehicle.

While these extra layers of security could make a laser cut car key more expensive than other keys but the truth is that they're still cheaper than purchasing a replacement from your dealership. Locksmiths often cut keys faster than dealerships selling cars.

Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser-cut car key can make a huge difference. A bad blade can easily harm the machine that cuts keys or your lock cylinder which could result in a costly repair cost. It's vital to purchase your laser-cut car keys from a locksmith for autos who sells them.

Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a variety of replacement car keys cost car key FOB keys for over 250 different models and makes of automobiles, as well as laser-cut sidewinder key replacements. Stop by today and see how we can save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealer!

Remote Keys

It wasn't too long ago that a car key was lost or losing it was not a huge issue. Contact a locksmith for a new key and then drive away. Today, however, cars are much more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys are more difficult to replace and even more difficult for thieves to duplicate. It's now more expensive to replace a lost car key.

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

If you own an intelligent key, transponder keys with a switchblade, or a transponder with remote start, you'll be required to visit your local dealer to have it replaced. It can be very expensive and could take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer which could delay getting back on the road.

Sometimes, as with any other electronic device the car key can stop working without reason. This can be due to extreme heat or cold however it could be due to an ineffective battery or the presence of water in the keyfob after rain. If you find that your car key isn't longer responding, it's worth trying to reset it first before contacting an auto locksmith.

It's also important to know that your key fob will only function if it's within range of the car. This is why it's important to keep your key fob with you at all times, and to not leave it in your pocket unless you're certain that you'll return it quickly.

The most frequent method of losing keys to cars is losing it or dropping it. This can sometimes result in the key breaking or get stuck in the lock. It's recommended to always have a spare.