Car Key Replacements

Whether it's a simple lock-and-key key or a sophisticated fob key, losing one can be costly. The best way to avoid this is to always have one in your wallet.

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

Mechanical Keys

Your car keys will likely be mechanical if you own an old car that doesn't use key fobs. The standard keys are made from metal such as brass, steel or a combination of nickel and brass. They are cut with the key duplicator machine with an original key positioned against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned with it to function as a template. The original key is cut using a special 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 vehicle. The chips are located in the ignition, or the key head. The transponder sends a signal to the car's computer when the key is turned into the ignition. The computer then examines the signal to ensure that it is in line with the correct serial number.

It's almost impossible to start an automobile without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match the car won't start and remain locked. This is a huge advantage that can stop car thieves from taking your car as the odds of someone else starting and driving off with your vehicle are drastically diminished.

A transponder key is more expensive than a regular metal key. This is because the transponder has a tiny microchip that isn't cheap to manufacture and then install into a car key. Keys like these are usually expensive when bought from a dealership.

A locksmith can provide more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive selection of these keys and can even modify the chip to work with your vehicle on-the-spot for a fraction of cost of a dealership.

When shopping around to replace a transponder key make sure you get multiple quotes. There are many factors that influence the final price, including the model and make of your vehicle, whether you have additional features on the key, like a remote key-fob, and even where you decide to go to copy it.

In the end, you have to weigh the benefits of a transponder against the expense and convenience. Transponder keys might be beneficial in the long term when you value safety and protection. In addition, most modern vehicles have an immobilizer that doesn't allow them to start if a non-transponder keys is used which is another aspect to take into consideration.

Laser-Cut Keys

Although they may seem like something from a sci-fi movie, laser cut keys are actually quite common and provide an additional layer of security for cars. They require specialized key cutting equipment and are more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick than traditional cut keys.

Contrary to traditional keys, which have grooves cut into one side laser cut car keys feature slits that are tooled on both sides. They can be inserted in the lock cylinder any way, and they still function. They are, replacement car key fobs therefore, more durable and robust than traditional keys.

As a bonus they can be used to open some locks with high security. The slits are drilled to a certain depth, which matches the codes of various car manufacturers. Finding the correct depth is crucial because a blade that is not cut correctly can damage the key cutting machine and result in the key not working immediately after being inserted into the lock cylinder.

The greater thickness and unique slits of keys made by lasers make them less prone to being copied or taken. A lot of these keys contain transponder chip that is specific to your car. This means that when someone copies your car keys, even if it contains transponder chips they won't be able to start your vehicle.

Although these additional layers of security may make a laser cut car key more expensive than other kinds, the fact is that they're still less expensive than purchasing a replacement from your dealership. In addition, locksmiths are often able to cut these keys more quickly than the car dealership.

Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser cut car key can make a huge difference. A blade that is not of the right type could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys or your lock cylinder, leading to a large repair cost. This is why it's crucial to purchase your laser cut car key from a reputable supplier that sells them to auto locksmiths.

Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a variety of replacement key fobs for cars car key FOB keys for over 250 different makes and models of vehicles, in addition to laser-cut sidewinder keys. Stop by today and see how we can help you save 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 keys to your car wasn't a huge deal. You could call an locksmith, receive a replacement and replacement car key fobs still drive away. Today's cars are more technologically advanced and the keys that correspond to them are more difficult to replace. They also are harder for thieves copy. It's becoming more expensive to replace the key to a car that has been lost.

Depending on the type of key you have, the price to replace it will 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 automotive locksmith to come to you and make a copy on the spot.

If you own a smart key, a transponder key with a 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 may take some time to get the new key from the manufacturer, which can delay your getting back on the road.

Your car key can stop working for no apparent cause, just like other electronic devices. Usually, this is due to extreme heat or cold however, it could also be due to an ineffective battery, water in the key fob due to rain or simply wearing out over time. If you notice that your car key isn't responding, you should consider trying to reset it first before calling an auto locksmith.

It's also important to remember that your key fob can only function only if it's within the range of the vehicle. It's important to always keep your key fob with you and not let it go out of your pocket unless it's absolutely required.

A majority of people lose their keys to their cars in the event of dropping them or misplacing keys. This can cause the key to break or get stuck in the lock. It's recommended to always have an extra.