Car Key Replacements
Whether it's a simple lock-and-key key or a more sophisticated fob key, losing one can cost you a lot. It's best to keep a spare key in your wallet.
The cheapest solution is to contact an auto locksmith in the event that you have lost your key. A dealership may be more costly, but it's a good choice.
Mechanical Keys
If you have an older vehicle that doesn't utilize key fob technology, your keys are likely mechanical. These standard keys can be made of brass, steel, or a combination between nickel and brass. The keys are cut on a key duplicator, which uses the blank key as a template, and an original key placed on the other side of the machine. The original key is cut using a special cutter to create a duplicate.
Transponder Keys
The majority of newer cars are equipped with a transponder chip integrated into the key that can be used to unlock and start the vehicle. These chips can be found in the ignition or the key head. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder transmits an electronic signal that is picked up by the computer system in the car. The computer then checks the signal to verify that it matches with the correct serial number.
This makes it virtually impossible for stolen vehicles to be started without the owner's keys. If the signal does not match the vehicle won't start. This is a huge advantage to prevent car thefts since it lowers the risk of someone else driving off with your vehicle.
A transponder key is more expensive than a standard metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is costly to produce and put into the car key. Typically, these types of keys can cost hundreds of dollars if purchased from a dealership.
A locksmith can provide less expensive and reliable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries a large assortment of these keys and can even modify the chip to work with your vehicle in-the-moment for a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
When you are looking for a transponder key replacement ensure you request multiple quotes. There are a variety of factors that impact the final price, such as the make and model of your car, whether you have any extra features on the key, like a remote key-fob, and even where you'll go to copy it.
In the end, you need to weigh the benefits of a transponder key versus the cost and convenience. Transponder keys could be beneficial in the long term when you value safety and protection. Additionally, many modern vehicles have an immobilizer that will not allow them to start if a key that is not transponder is utilized which is another aspect to take into consideration.
Laser-Cut Keys
While they might appear like something from an sci-fi film Laser cut keys are in fact quite common and provide an extra layer of security for vehicles. They require special key cutting equipment and are more difficult for thieves to copy or pick than traditional cut keys.
Laser cut car keys are different from traditional keys that have grooves on one side. They also have slits on both sides. They can be inserted into the lock cylinder any way and still work. As a result, they tend to be more robust and durable than conventional keys.
As a bonus, they can also be used to open some locks with high security. The slits are drilled to a particular depth, which is in line with the codes of various automobile manufacturers. Getting the right depth is vital because a blade that is not cut correctly could damage the machine that cuts keys and result in the key not functioning shortly after it is inserted into the lock cylinder.
The greater thickness and unique slits in keys made by lasers make them less prone to being copied or taken. A lot of these keys include a transponder that is unique to your vehicle. 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 much less than getting a new replacement from your dealership. In addition, locksmiths are usually able to cut these keys more quickly 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 cause damage to the key cutting machine or lock cylinder and leave you with a large repair cost. It's vital to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith that sells them.
get a replacement car key has a wide selection of replacement car key FOB keys for more than 250 different models and brands of vehicles. We also have 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 going to a dealer!
Remote Keys
Not too long ago having lost or misplaced your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could contact a locksmith, get an alternate and then leave. Modern cars are more advanced in technology and the keys that correspond to them can be harder to replace. They can also be more difficult for thieves to copy. This means that when you lose your car key it could be more costly than ever to replace it.
The cost of replacing a key can vary according to the kind. For traditional keys you can get a copy made for about $10 at a hardware store, or you can ask an automotive locksmith to come to you and make one right there.
You'll have to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade or transponder with remote start to the dealer to be changed. This can be expensive and you might have to wait for a long time before the manufacturer can send you the new key.
Sometimes, as with any other electronic device keys for cars will cease to function for no apparent reason. Most often, this happens due to extreme cold or heat but it could also be due to an unsatisfactory battery, water in the key fob from rain, or simply deteriorating over time. It is recommended to reset your car key before calling an auto locksmith if you find that it's not responding.
You should also know that your keyfob will only work if you're within the reach of the vehicle. This is why it's important to keep your key fob close to you at all times and not let it leave your pocket unless you're sure that you can return it swiftly.
The most frequent way to lose keys to cars is misplacing it or dropping it. In some instances this could cause it to break or be stuck in the lock, which is why it's always recommended to keep an extra in your possession at all times.