15 Reasons You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Car Key Replacements

Car Key Replacements

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

If you do lose a key, the cheapest solution is to hire an auto locksmith. A dealership could be more expensive, but it's an option worth considering.

Mechanical Keys

If you have an older car that doesn't have key fob technology, your car keys are likely mechanical. The standard keys are made of metal, such as brass, steel or a combination of brass and nickel. Keys are cut using a key duplicator, which makes use of the blank key as a template and an original key on the other side of the machine. The original key is then cut with a specially-designed cutter to create a duplicate.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips are built into the majority of modern cars' keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and begin it. These chips are usually located inside the key head, but they can also be found in the ignition. When the key is turned in the ignition, the transponder sends an electronic signal that is picked up by the computer system of the car. The computer then examines the signal to verify that it is in line with the correct serial number.

It's almost impossible to start an automobile without the owner's key. If the signal isn't compatible the car won't start and will remain locked. This is a huge benefit to deter car thefts as it decreases the chance of someone else driving off with your car.

Transponder keys cost more than a standard metal key. The transponder is a microchip that is costly to produce and put into a car key. Typically, these types of keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a car dealer.

A locksmith can offer more reliable and less expensive transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has an extensive selection of these keys and will reprogram the chip right on the spot, allowing it to work with your vehicle for less than the dealership.

When shopping around for a transponder replacement key, be sure to get multiple estimates. There are a variety of factors that impact the final price, such as the make and model of your vehicle, whether you have any additional features on your key, such as a remote key-fob, and even the location you choose to copy it.

In the end, you need to weigh the advantages of a transponder in comparison to the cost and convenience. Transponder keys could be worth it in the long run if you prioritize safety and protection. Additionally, the majority of modern cars have an immobilizer that doesn't allow the car to start if a non-transponder key is used which is another aspect to take into consideration.

Laser-Cut Keys

While they might appear like something from the sci-fi genre Laser cut keys are in fact quite common and provide an extra layer of security for vehicles. These keys require specialized key cutting equipment and are much 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 tooled on both sides. This allows them to be put into the lock cylinder in either direction and still operate it. They are thus 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 is compatible with various codes used by car manufacturers. Finding the correct depth is vital because a blade that is not cut correctly can damage the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not functioning shortly after it is inserted into the lock cylinder.

The unique slits and increased thickness of the car keys laser-cut make them more resistant to being copied. Some keys have a transponder chip that is unique to your car. This means that when someone copies your car key, even if it has a transponder chip they won't be able to start your car.

Keys for cars cut with lasers may be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from a dealership. Locksmiths often cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.

The quality of a laser-cut car key can make a significant difference. A bad blade could easily damage the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder, leaving you with an expensive repair cost. This is the reason it's essential to purchase your laser cut car key from a reputable supplier that sells them to auto locksmiths.

Bibens Ace South Burlington has an extensive range of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different models and brands of vehicles. We also offer a laser-cut sidewinder key. Visit us today to see how you can save money on replacement car fobs without having to go to an auto dealer!

Remote Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or even losing your car keys wasn't an issue. Contact a locksmith for a new key and then drive away. Today's cars are more advanced in technology and the keys that correspond to them can be harder to replace. They are also more difficult for thieves to copy. This means that if you lose your car keys it could be more costly than ever to get it replaced.

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

If you own an electronic key, a transponder key with switchblade, or a transponder with remote start, you will need to visit your dealership to get it replaced. This can be very costly, and it may take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer, which can delay your getting back on the road.

Your car key can not function for no apparent reason as with other electronic devices. Often, this is due to extreme heat or cold however, it could be due to an unsatisfactory battery or key fob from rain or just wearing out over time. If  auto key replacement  find that your car key is no responding, it's worth trying to reset it before contacting an auto locksmith.

It's also important to understand that your key fob can only function only if it's within the range of your vehicle. It is essential to keep your key fob close to you, and never put it in your pocket unless it's absolutely essential.

Most people lose their car keys in the event of dropping them or misplacing them. In some instances, this can cause it to break or get stuck in the lock and this is why it's recommended to keep an extra key in your possession at all times.