Car Key Replacements

Whether it's a simple lock-and-key key or a more sophisticated fob key, losing one could be costly. It's ideal to keep an extra key in your wallet.

The cheapest option is to call an auto locksmith near me car key replacement in the event that you have lost your key. Dealerships are more expensive, but it is a good choice.

Mechanical Keys

If you have an older vehicle that doesn't use key fob technology, your keys are probably mechanical. Keys of this type are made of metal like steel, brass or a combination of brass and nickel. The keys are cut using the 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 with an specialized cutter to make the duplicate.

Transponder Keys

The majority of modern cars come with a transponder chip integrated into the key which is used to unlock and start the vehicle. The chips are located in the ignition or the key head. The transponder transmits a signal to the car's computer when the key is turned into the ignition. The computer analyzes the signal and ensures that it matches with the correct serial number.

This makes it nearly impossible for a stolen car to be started without owner's keys. If the signal doesn't match, the car will not start and remain locked. This is a huge advantage that helps to stop car thieves from taking your car as the likelihood of someone else starting and driving off with your car are greatly diminished.

The drawback of transponder keys is that it's more expensive than a conventional flat metal key. This is because the transponder contains a small microchip that's expensive to make and put into the car key. Typically, these kinds of keys can cost hundreds of dollars if purchased from a dealership.

A locksmith can provide much more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys and can reprogram the chip right on the spot, allowing it to work with your vehicle at a fraction the cost of the dealership.

If you're looking for a transponder replacement key, be sure to get multiple quotes. There are a variety of factors that influence 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.

Ultimately, you should weigh the benefits of a transponder-based key against the cost of car key replacement and ease of use. Transponder keys might be worth it in the long run, in the event that you are concerned about security and safety. A car key without a transponder will not allow the car to start.

Laser-Cut Keys

Although they may appear like something from an sci-fi film Laser cut keys are in fact quite common and replacement car key fob provide an extra layer of security for cars. They are created using specialized key cutting machines and are harder to duplicate or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.

Unlike traditional keys that feature grooves cut into one side the laser cut keys have slits tooled on both sides. This allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in any direction, replacement car key fob and still operate. They are, therefore, more durable and thicker than traditional keys.

They are also used as a bonus to open certain high-security locks. The slits are made to a specific depth, which matches the codes of various automobile manufacturers. Getting the right depth is vital as an incorrectly cut blade could damage the key cutting machine and result in the key not functioning shortly after it is placed into the lock cylinder.

The greater thickness and unique slits in keys made by lasers make them less prone to being copied or picked. In addition some keys have transponder chips that are unique to your car. This means that even if a person creates a duplicate of your car's key with transponder chips they will not be capable of starting your car.

Keys for cars cut with lasers may be more expensive, but they are still less expensive than buying a new one from the dealership. Locksmiths can often cut keys faster than dealerships for cars.

Another aspect to be aware of is that the quality of a laser cut car key could make all the difference. The wrong blade can easily damage the machine that cuts keys or lock cylinder, leaving you with a huge repair bill. This is why it's crucial to get your laser cut car key from a trusted company that sells keys to auto locksmiths.

Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different models and makes of vehicles, in addition to sidewinder keys laser-cut. Visit us today to see how you can save money on replacements for your car fob without going to an auto 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 a replacement and still drive away. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and the corresponding keys can be harder to replace and even more difficult for thieves to copy. It's now more expensive to replace a lost car key.

Depending on the type of key that you own, the cost to replace it will vary. You can have an old-fashioned key for $10 at a local hardware store or hire an automotive locksmith who will visit you to make it on the spot.

If you own an electronic key, transponder keys with switchblade, or a transponder key that has remote start, you'll be required to visit your local dealer to get it replaced. It can be costly and you might need to wait for a long time for the manufacturer to send you a new key.

Sometimes, as with any other electronic device the car key can stop working without reason. This is often due to extreme heat or cold, but can also be due to an ineffective battery or the presence of water in the keyfob from rain. It's worth resetting your car key before calling an auto locksmith if you find that it is not responding.

It's also important to know that your key fob can only function when it's within reach of the car. This is the reason it's essential to keep your key fob on your person at all times, and to not leave it in your pocket unless you're certain that you'll be able to return it swiftly.

The most common way to lose the car key is through misplacing it or dropping it. In certain instances, this can cause it to break or be stuck in the lock and that's why it's a good idea to have an extra in your possession at all times.