15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Car Key Replacements
Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key could be costly, whether it's a standard lock-and-key or a more sophisticated key fob. It's best to keep one spare key in your wallet.
The most affordable option is to call an auto locksmith in the event that you lose your key. A dealership is more expensive but a solid option.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older car that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your car keys are probably mechanical. These standard keys are made from metal such as brass, steel or a mixture of brass and nickel. The keys are cut on a key duplicator, which makes use of an uncut key as a template, and an original key placed on the other side of the machine. The original key is then cut with a specially-designed cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chips built into the key that can be used to unlock and start the car. These chips are usually placed in the key head however they could also be placed in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder transmits an electronic signal that is picked up by the car's computer system. The computer then checks the signal to ensure that it matches with the correct serial number.
It is almost impossible to start cars without the owner's key. If the signal doesn't match the car's signal, it won't start and will remain locked. This is an excellent benefit to help deter car thefts since it decreases the chance of someone else driving off with your vehicle.
The drawback of transponder keys is that it costs more than a traditional flat metal key. The transponder is a chip that is expensive to manufacture and integrate into a car key. Keys like these are usually expensive when purchased from a car dealership.
A locksmith can provide less expensive and reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive selection of keys, and they can modify the chip to work with your car on the spot for a fraction of price of the dealership.
Be sure to compare estimates when looking for the replacement transponder keys. There are replacement key for car near me of variables that affect the final price, including the make and model of your car, whether you have any extra features on the key, such as a remote key fob, and even where you'll go to copy it.
In the end, you must weigh the benefits of a transponder key versus the cost and convenience. If you value security and safety and security, then a transponder key may be worth the investment in the long term. In addition, most modern vehicles have an immobilizer that doesn't allow the car to start if a key that is not transponder is used which is another factor to consider.
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 security measure for cars. These keys are created with specially designed key cutting equipment and are more difficult to duplicate or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.
Contrary to traditional keys, which have grooves cut into one side, laser cut car keys have slits cut on both sides. This allows them to be put into the lock cylinder in either direction, and still operate. They are therefore more durable and stronger than traditional keys.
As a bonus they can also be used to unlock certain high-security locks. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that is compatible with 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 once it is placed into the lock.
The greater thickness and unique slits of car keys cut with lasers make them less prone to being copied or taken. Many of these keys also contain transponder chip that is unique to your vehicle. This means that even if a person copies your car key with transponder chips, they won't be able to start your car.
Keys for cars cut with lasers may be more expensive however, they are less expensive than buying a new one from the dealership. Locksmiths often cut these keys faster than dealerships for cars.
A laser-cut car key's quality can make a huge difference. The wrong blade could harm the machine that cuts keys or lock cylinder and leave you with a huge repair bill. It's vital to purchase your laser-cut car keys from a locksmith that sells keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a wide choice of car key replacement FOB keys for more than 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also offer a laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to see how you can save money on car fob replacements without going to a dealer!
Remote Keys
Not so long ago the possibility of losing or misplacing your car keys was not an issue. You could call an locksmith, receive an alternate and then leave. Today, however, cars are much more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys are harder to replace and even more difficult for thieves to copy. It's now more expensive to replace the key to a car that has been lost.
Depending on the type of key that you have, the price to replace it will differ. For traditional keys you can have a copy made for about $10 at a hardware store, or you can hire an automotive locksmith to visit you and make a copy right there.
You'll need to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade, or transponder with remote start to the dealership to be repaired. This can be very costly and may take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer, which could delay getting back on the road.
The car key may not function for no apparent reason as with other electronic devices. This is often due to extreme cold or heat however, it can also be due to an ineffective battery or the presence of water in the keyfob after rain. If you notice that your car key is no responding, it's worth trying to reset it first before contacting an auto locksmith.
You should also be aware that your key fob will only work if you're within the reach of the vehicle. This is why it's important to keep your key fob on you at all times, and never let it go out of your pocket unless you are certain that you'll be able to return it quickly.
The most frequent way to lose a car key is by misplacing it or dropping it. In some cases this could cause it to break or get stuck in the lock, which is why it's always recommended to keep an extra on hand at all times.