Car Key Replacements

Whether it's a simple lock-and-key key or a sophisticated fob key, losing one could cost you big time. The best way to avoid this is to keep an extra key in your wallet.

The most affordable option is to call an auto locksmith if you lose your key. A dealership can be more expensive, but it is a good option.

Mechanical Keys

If you have an older vehicle that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your car keys are likely mechanical. Keys of this type are made from metal like steel, brass or a mixture of brass and nickel. The keys are cut using the key duplicator, which uses an uncut key as a template, and an original key against the opposite side of the machine. The original key is cut with a specific cutter to create a 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 vehicle. These chips are usually placed inside the key head, however they could also be placed in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder transmits a signal that is received by the car's computer system. The computer examines the signal and makes sure that it matches the correct serial number.

It's 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 a huge benefit that can discourage car thieves since the odds of someone else starting and driving away with your car are significantly diminished.

The downside of transponder keys is that it's more expensive than a traditional flat metal key. This is because the transponder contains a small microchip that isn't cheap to produce and install in the car key. Typically, these kinds of keys can cost hundreds of dollars purchased through the car dealership.

A locksmith can provide much more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has an extensive selection of these keys and will re-program the chip on the spot, allowing it to work with your car at a fraction the cost of the dealership.

Be sure to check out quotes when shopping for an alternative transponder key. The final cost is determined by many factors, such as the model and make of your vehicle, the extra features you can get on the key (such as a remote-control key fob) and even the location where you choose to copy it.

In the end, you have to weigh the advantages of a transponder versus the cost and the convenience. If you are concerned about security and safety, then a transponder keys might be worth the investment in the long term. Additionally, many modern vehicles have an immobilizer that will not allow them to start if a non-transponder keys is utilized and this is a further reason to think about.

Laser-Cut Keys

Although they may appear like something from an sci-fi film laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an additional layer of protection for vehicles. These keys are created with specially designed key cutting equipment and are much harder to duplicate or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.

Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side laser cut car keys have slits cut on both sides. They can be inserted into the lock cylinder in any way and still work. They are, therefore, more durable and stronger than standard keys.

They are also utilized as a bonus to unlock certain locks with high security. This is because the slits are placed in a particular depth that matches with the various codes used by car manufacturers. The right depth is crucial since a wrongly cut blade could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not working immediately after being placed into the lock cylinder.

The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of car keys cut with lasers make them more resistant to copying. A lot of these keys include a transponder that is unique to your car. This means that even if someone creates a duplicate of your car key using transponder chips they will not be in a position to start your car.

Laser-cut car keys might be more expensive however, they are cheaper than buying a replacement car key costs from a dealership. In addition, locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys faster than the car dealership.

Another aspect to be aware of is that the quality of a laser cut car key can make a huge difference. The wrong type of blade could easily damage the machine that cuts keys or the cylinder of your lock, which could result in a costly repair cost. This is why it's crucial to purchase your laser-cut car key from a reputable company that sells them 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 automobiles, as well as sidewinder keys laser-cut. Visit us today to see how we can help save you money on replacement car key fobs without the hassle of going to a dealership!

Remote Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a big issue. Contact a locksmith for a new key and leave. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and the corresponding keys are harder to replace and more difficult for thieves to duplicate. This means that if you lose your car keys it could be more expensive than ever to replace it.

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

If you have an electronic key, transponder keys with switchblade, or a transponder key that has remote start, you'll need to visit your dealership to have it replaced. It can be very expensive, and it may take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer, which will delay your getting back on the road.

Like any other electronic device keys for cars will stop working for no apparent reason. Usually, this is due to extreme cold or heat but it could be due to an unsatisfactory battery or key fob from rain or just wearing out over time. It's worth resetting your car keys prior to calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it is not responding.

You should also know that your key fob can only work if you're within the range of the vehicle. It's important to always keep your key fob close to you and not let it go out of your pocket unless absolutely necessary.

The most common method of losing keys to cars is misplacing it or dropping it. In some instances this could cause it to break or become stuck in the lock and that's why it's a good idea to have an extra in your possession at all times.