10 Misconceptions Your Boss Has About Car Key Replacements
Car Key Replacements
It doesn't matter if it's a simple lock and key key or a sophisticated fob key, losing it could cost you a lot. It's recommended to keep one spare key in your wallet.
The cheapest solution is to call an auto locksmith if you've lost your keys. A dealership may be more expensive, but it's an excellent option.
Mechanical Keys
If you own an older car that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your keys are probably mechanical. Keys that are standard can be made from steel, brass, or a combination between brass and nickel. The keys are cut on a key duplicator, which utilizes an uncut key as a template, and an original key against the opposite side of the machine. The original key is cut with an specialized cutter to make an exact 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. These chips can be found in the ignition or the key head. The transponder sends a signal to the computer of the car when the key is turned into the ignition. The computer then examines the signal to ensure that it matches with the correct serial number.
It's almost impossible to start cars without the owner's keys. If the signal isn't compatible, the car will not start and remain locked. This is a great benefit to help deter car thefts since it lowers the risk of someone else driving off with your vehicle.
The downside of a transponder key is that it costs more than a conventional flat metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is expensive to create and put into the car key. The keys are usually expensive when purchased from a dealership for cars.
A locksmith can offer less expensive and more trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has an extensive selection of these keys. They can re-program the chip right on the spot to work with your car at a fraction the cost of the dealership.
Make sure to compare prices when you are looking for an alternative transponder key. The final cost will be influenced by many factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle, the extra features you have on the key (such as a remote-control key fob), and even the location you decide to have it copied.
In the end, it is important consider the advantages of a transponder in comparison to the expense and convenience. If you value security and safety, then a transponder keys might be worth the investment in the long run. A car key without a transponder won't allow the car to start.
Laser-Cut Keys
While they might seem like something from the sci-fi genre, laser cut keys are actually quite common and offer an extra layer of protection for cars. They require special key cutting equipment to make and are much harder for thieves to copy or pick than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys differ from traditional keys, which have grooves on one side. They also have slits on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder any way and still work. They are thus more durable and thicker than standard keys.
As a bonus, they can be used to open some locks with high security. This is because the slits are fitted into a certain depth that matches with the various codes used by car manufacturers. Getting the right depth is crucial because a blade that is not cut correctly could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not working shortly after being inserted into the lock cylinder.
The increased thickness and unique slits in car keys cut with lasers are less vulnerable to being copied or picked. In addition, many of these keys have transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that anyone who copies your car key even if it has a transponder chips it will not be able start your vehicle.
Laser-cut car keys might be more expensive however, they are cheaper than purchasing a replacement from the dealership. key replacements for cars are usually able to cut these keys faster than a car dealership.
Another important thing to remember is that the quality of a laser cut car key can make all the difference. The wrong blade could damage your key cutting machine or lock cylinder, leaving you with a costly repair bill. This is why it's important to purchase your laser-cut car key from a trusted supplier who sells keys to auto locksmiths.
Bibens Ace South Burlington has a wide choice of car key replacement FOB keys for more than 250 different makes and model of vehicles. We also offer a laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on car fob replacements, without having to go to an auto dealer!
Remote Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing your car key or losing it was not a big deal. You could call an locksmith, receive a replacement and still drive away. Nowadays, however, automobiles are much more technologically advanced and keys can be harder to replace and harder for thieves to duplicate. It's now more expensive to replace keys for cars that have been stolen.
The cost of replacing a key will vary depending on the type. For keys that are traditional you can get an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store or you can get an automotive locksmith to come to you and make a copy right there.
You will need to take your smart key, transponder with switchblade or transponder that has remote start to the dealer to be replaced. This can be very costly and may take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer, which can delay your getting back on the road.
Sometimes, as with any other electronic device the car key can cease to function for no apparent reason. Most often, this happens due to extreme heat or cold but it could be due to a bad battery, water in the key fob from rain, or simply deteriorating over time. It is recommended to reset 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 function if you are within the range of the vehicle. It is essential to keep your key fob with you, and never take it out of your pocket unless absolutely required.
A majority of people lose their keys to their car by dropping them or misplacing keys. In some instances, this can cause it to break or be stuck in the lock and this is why it's recommended to keep an extra key on hand at all times.