20 Tips To Help You Be More Efficient With Car Key Replacements
Car Key Replacements
The loss of a key can be costly, regardless of whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a high-end key fob. The best way to prevent this is to always have one in your wallet.
If you do lose a key, the cheapest car key replacement solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership can be more expensive, but is a great option.
Mechanical Keys
The keys to your car are likely to be mechanical if you own an older vehicle that does not use key fobs. These standard keys are made of metal like brass, steel or a mixture of nickel and brass. They're cut using a key duplicator, using an original key set against one side of the machine, and a blank key aligned to it to serve as an example. The original key is cut with a specific cutter to create an exact duplicate.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are incorporated into most newer cars' keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and start it. These chips can be found in the ignition, or the key head. The transponder transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer when the key is turned on in the ignition. The computer checks the signal and ensures it matches the correct serial number.
It's nearly impossible to start a car without the owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match, the car will not start and remain locked. This is a great advantage to prevent car thefts as it lowers the risk of someone else driving off with your car.
The downside of a transponder key is that it is more expensive than a conventional flat metal key. The reason for this is that the transponder contains a small microchip that's expensive to make and put into a car key. Typically, these types of keys can cost hundreds of dollars purchased through the car dealership.
A locksmith can provide more reliable and affordable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has a wide selection of these keys and can program the chip right on the spot to work with your vehicle for a fraction the cost of the dealership.
If you're looking to replace a transponder key ensure you request multiple quotes. The final price is influenced by many factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle, the additional features that you can find on the key (such as a remote control key-fob) and the location where you choose to have it copied.
In the end, it is important consider the advantages of a transponder against the cost and convenience. If you prioritize safety and security, then a transponder keys could be worth the cost in the long term. A non-transponder car key will not allow the vehicle to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser cut keys might sound like something from a sci-fi flick, but they are very common. They provide an additional security layer to automobiles. These keys require specialized key cutting equipment and are more difficult for thieves to copy or pick than traditional cut keys.
In contrast to traditional keys with grooves cut into one side, laser cut car keys have slits cut on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder any way and still function. In the end, they tend to be sturdy and stronger than standard keys.
In addition, they can also be used to open certain high-security locks. The slits are tooled to a certain depth, which is in line with the codes of various car manufacturers. It is crucial to choose the correct depth as an incorrectly-cut blade can damage the cutting machine, and cause the key not to function once it has been placed into the lock.
The increased thickness and unique slits in car keys cut with lasers make them less susceptible to being copied or taken. Additionally, many of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that if someone copies your car key even if it has a transponder chip it will not be able to start your vehicle.
Although these extra layers of security could make a laser cut car key more expensive than other kinds but the truth is that they're still much less than getting a new replacement from your dealership. Locksmiths are able to cut these keys more quickly than dealerships for cars.
A car key that is laser cut's quality can make a big difference. A blade that is not of the right type can easily harm the key cutting machine or the cylinder of your lock, leading to a large repair cost. It's vital to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith that sells keys.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a wide choice of Car Alarm Key Replacement key replacement FOB keys for over 250 different models and makes of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder key. Stop by today and see how we can help save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of having to go to a dealer!
Remote Keys
In the past having lost or misplaced your car keys wasn't an issue. You could call an locksmith, receive an alternate and then leave. Nowadays, however, cars are much more technologically advanced, and the corresponding keys are more difficult to replace and even more difficult for thieves to duplicate. This means that when you lose your car keys it will be more expensive than before to get it replaced.
Depending on the type of key you have, the price to replace it will differ. You can have traditional keys replacement for cars for just $10 at a local hardware store or hire an automotive locksmith who will come to you to make it right there.
If you have an electronic key, transponder key with switchblade, or a transponder key that has remote start, you'll have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This can be expensive and you might have to wait for a long time for the manufacturer to send you a new key.
The car key may not function for no apparent cause as with other electronic devices. This is often due to extreme cold or heat, but can be due to an unsatisfactory battery or water in the keyfob following rain. If you notice that your car key isn't responding, it's worth trying to reset it before contacting an auto locksmith.
It's also important to know that your key fob will only work only if it's within the range of the vehicle. It's important to always keep your key fob close to you, and never let it go out of your pocket unless absolutely essential.
The most common method of losing a car key is by misplacing it or dropping it. In some instances this could cause it to break or get stuck in the lock and that's why it's recommended to keep an extra on hand at all times.