14 Common Misconceptions About Car Key Replacements

Car Key Replacements

The loss of a key could be costly, regardless of whether it's a simple lock-and-key, or a more sophisticated key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep one in your wallet.

The cheapest replacement car keys solution is to call an auto locksmith if you lose your key. A dealership might be more costly, but it's an excellent option.

Mechanical Keys

The keys to your car are likely to be mechanical if you have an older vehicle that doesn't use key fobs. The standard keys are made of steel, brass, or a combination between nickel and brass. They're cut using a key duplicator, using an original key set against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned to it to serve as a template. The original key is cut with a special cutter to create the duplicate.

Transponder Keys

Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chip integrated into the key that is used to unlock and start the vehicle. The chips are typically placed inside the key head, but can also be located in the ignition. When the key is turned in the ignition, the transponder sends the signal to be received by the computer system in the car. The computer then analyzes the signal to ensure that it matches the correct serial number.

This makes it nearly impossible for a stolen vehicle to start without the owner's keys. If the signal isn't compatible, the car will not start and remain locked. This is a huge benefit to help deter car thefts, as it reduces the likelihood of someone else stealing your vehicle.

A transponder key costs more than a standard metal key. The transponder is a chip that is expensive to manufacture and put into the car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased from a car dealer.

A locksmith can offer more reliable and affordable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries a large assortment of keys, and can reprogramme the chip to work with your car on the spot for a fraction of the price of the dealership.

When shopping around to replace a transponder key ensure you request multiple estimates. There are a variety of factors that impact the final cost for replacement car key, including the make and model of your car, if you have additional features on the key such as a remote key-fob or a remote key-fob, and also where you decide to go to copy it.

In the end, you need to evaluate the advantages of a transponder-based key against the cost and convenience. If you are concerned about safety and security, then a transponder key could be worth the cost in the long run. A non-transponder car key will not allow the vehicle to start.

Laser-Cut Keys

Laser cut keys can sound like something from a sci-fi film, but they are quite common. They add an extra security layer to automobiles. These keys are made with specialized key cutting machines and are harder to duplicate or steal from thieves than traditional cut keys.

Laser cut car keys differ from traditional keys that have grooves on one side. They also have cut-outs on both sides. This allows keys to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either direction while still operating it. In the end, they tend to be robust and durable than conventional keys.

Additionally, they can also be used to open some high-security locks. The slits are tooled to a specific depth that matches the codes of the different automobile manufacturers. It is crucial to choose the right depth, as an incorrectly-cut blade can damage the cutting machine, and make the key unable to function once it has been placed into the lock.

The unique slits and increased thickness of car keys cut with lasers make them more resistant to copying. Some keys have a transponder chip that is unique to your car. This means that even if someone makes a copy of your car key using transponder chips, they won't be in a position to start your car.

Although these extra layers of security could make a laser-cut car key more expensive than other keys however, the reality is that they're still cheaper than buying a new one from your dealer. Locksmiths can often cut keys faster than dealerships for cars.

A laser-cut car key's quality can make a significant difference. A blade that is not of the right type could easily damage the key cutting machine or your lock cylinder, which could result in a costly repair bill. It is essential to purchase your laser-cut car keys from an auto locksmith who sells keys.

Bibens Ace South Burlington offers a variety of car key FOB replacement keys for over 250 different makes and models of vehicles, as well as 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

In the past the possibility of losing or misplacing your car keys was not a huge deal. Call a locksmith to get a new key and drive away. Nowadays, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and the corresponding keys can be harder to replace and more difficult for thieves to copy. This means that if you lose your car keys it could be more expensive than before to replace it.

The cost of replacing a key will differ depending on the kind. For traditional keys, you can have an exact copy made for around $10 at a hardware store or you can get an automotive locksmith to visit you and make one on the spot.

If you own an electronic key, transponder key with a switchblade or a transponder key that has remote start, you will be required to visit your local dealer to have it replaced. This can be expensive and you may have to wait a long time before the manufacturer can send you the new key.

Like any other electronic device, Car Key Fob Replacement your car key will stop working for no apparent reason. Usually, this is due to extreme cold or heat however, it could also be caused by a bad battery or key fob from rain, or simply deteriorating over time. If you notice that your car key is no responding, you should consider trying to reset it before calling an auto locksmith.

It's also important to understand that your key fob will only function if it's within range of the car. It's important to always keep your key fob close to you and not take it out of your pocket unless it's absolutely essential.

A majority of people lose their car keys by dropping them or misplacing them. This could result in the key breaking or get stuck in the lock. It's recommended to always have a spare.