Car Key Replacements

Losing a key can be costly, whether it's an ordinary lock-and-key or a sophisticated key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep one in your wallet.

The most affordable option is to contact an auto locksmith if you've lost your keys. A dealership can be more expensive, but it is a good choice.

Mechanical Keys

If you own an older car that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your car keys are likely mechanical. The standard keys are made from metal like brass, steel or a mixture of nickel and brass. Keys are cut using a key duplicator, which makes use of 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 the duplicate.

Transponder Keys

The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chip integrated into the key that is used to unlock and start the car. The chips are located in the ignition or on the key head. The transponder transmits an electronic signal to the computer in the car when the key is inserted into the ignition. The computer then checks the signal to verify that it is in line with the correct serial number.

It's nearly impossible to start cars without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match the car won't start and will remain locked. This is a huge advantage to prevent car thefts as it decreases the chance of someone else driving off with your vehicle.

A transponder key costs more than a regular metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is expensive to manufacture and integrate into the car key. These keys are typically expensive when purchased from a car dealership.

A locksmith can provide cheaper and more reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has an extensive selection of these keys and can program the chip right on the spot to work with your vehicle at less than the dealership.

If you're looking to replace a transponder key ensure you request multiple quotes. There are many variables that affect the final cost, including the make and replacement car key fob model of your vehicle, whether you have any extra features on your key, like a remote key-fob or a remote key-fob, and also the location you choose to copy it.

In the end, you need to evaluate the advantages of a transponder key versus the cost of replacement car keys and ease of use. If you value safety and security, then a transponder keys could be worth the cost in the long in the long run. A non-transponder car key won't allow the car to start.

Laser-Cut Keys

Laser cut keys might sound like something from a sci-fi film However, they are actually fairly common. They add an extra security layer to automobiles. These keys require specialized key replacement for car cutting equipment to make 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 laser cut car keys feature slits that are tooled on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder either way and still work. They are therefore more durable and robust than standard keys.

As a bonus they can be used to open some high-security locks. This is due to the slits being tooled into a specific depth that matches with the different car manufacturers' codes. It is important to get the correct depth since an incorrectly-cut blade can harm the cutting machine and cause the key not to function after it is placed into the lock.

The greater thickness and unique slits on keys made by lasers make them less prone to being copied or taken. Many of these keys also include a transponder that is unique to your vehicle. This means that if someone copies your car key even if it has a transponder chip they won't be able to start your car.

While these extra layers of security could make a laser-cut car key more expensive than other kinds however, the reality is that they're still less expensive than buying a new one from your dealership. Locksmiths can often cut these keys faster than car dealerships.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the quality of a laser cut car key can make a huge 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. This is why it's important to purchase your laser cut car key from a trusted company that sells keys to auto locksmiths.

Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a wide selection of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different makes and models of vehicles, as well as sidewinder keys laser-cut. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on car fob replacements, without having to go to an auto dealer!

Remote Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or even losing your car keys was not an issue. You could contact a locksmith, get an alternate and then leave. Modern cars are more technologically advanced, and the keys that correspond to them can be harder to replace. They also are difficult to steal. This means that when you lose your car key, it can be more expensive than ever to get it replaced.

Depending on the type of key that you have, the cost to replace it can vary. You can purchase a traditional key made for $10 at a local hardware store or hire an auto locksmith who will visit you to create it right there.

You will need to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade or transponder with remote start to the dealer to be replaced. This can be expensive and you might need to wait a long period of time before the manufacturer will send you an alternative key.

Your car key can stop working for no apparent reason as with other electronic devices. This is often due to extreme heat or cold however, it can be due to an unsatisfactory battery or water in the keyfob after rain. It's a good idea to reset your car key before calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it is not responding.

It is important to know that your key fob will only work if you're within the range of the vehicle. This is why it's crucial to keep your key fob with your person at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you are certain that you'll be able to return it promptly.

Most people lose their keys to their cars by dropping them or misplacing keys. In some cases this could cause it to break or be stuck in the lock and that's why it's recommended to keep an extra key in your possession at all times.