10 Mobile Apps That Are The Best For Car Key Replacements

cost of a replacement car key

Losing a key can be costly, whether it's an ordinary lock-and-key or a high-end key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always have one in your wallet.

The most affordable option is to call an auto locksmith in the event that you lose your key. A dealership is more expensive, but is a great choice.

Mechanical Keys

If you have an older vehicle that doesn't use key fob technology, your car keys are likely mechanical. The standard keys are made from metal such as brass, steel or a mixture of brass and nickel. They're cut using a key duplicator machine, with the original key placed against one side of the machine and a blank key aligned to it to function as the template. The original key is cut with a special cutter to create a duplicate.

Transponder Keys

Most newer cars come equipped with a transponder chip integrated into the key which is used to unlock and start the car. These chips are usually placed inside the key head, but can also be located in the ignition. The transponder transmits a signal to the car's computer when the key is inserted into the ignition. The computer examines the signal and ensures 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 will remain locked. This is an enormous benefit that helps discourage car thieves since the chances of someone else attempting to start and then driving away with your vehicle are drastically diminished.

Transponder keys cost more than a flat metal key. The transponder is a microchip which is expensive to manufacture and put into a car key. The keys are usually expensive when purchased from a dealership for cars.

A locksmith can offer much less expensive and more trustworthy transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive selection of keys, and can reprogram the chip to work with your car in-the-moment at a fraction of the price of the dealership.

If you're looking to replace a transponder key, be sure to get multiple estimates. There are a variety of factors that impact the final price, including the model and make of your car, whether you have any extra features on the key, like a remote key-fob and where you'll go to get it copied.

In the end, you need to weigh the advantages of a transponder in comparison to the cost and the convenience. If you prioritize security and safety, then a transponder key might be worth the investment in the long term. A non-transponder car key won't allow the car to start.

Laser-Cut Keys

Laser cut keys can look like something from a sci-fi movie however they are actually very common. They provide an additional layer of security for automobiles. They are created using specialized key cutting machines and are more difficult to duplicate or pick for thieves than traditional cut keys.

In contrast to traditional keys with grooves cut into one side the laser cut keys feature slits that are tooled on both sides. They can be put into the lock cylinder either way and still function. In the end, they are generally robust and durable than conventional keys.

Additionally, they can be used to open some locks with high security. This is due to the slits being placed in a particular depth that is compatible with various codes used by car manufacturers. It is important to get the correct depth since cutting the blade incorrectly can harm the cutting machine and cause the key not to function after it has been placed into the lock.

The distinctive slits and the increased thickness of the car keys laser-cut make them more resistant to copying. Additionally, many of these keys contain transponder chips that are unique to your vehicle. This means that even if someone makes a copy of your car key using a transponder chip, they won't be able to start your vehicle.

Although these additional layers of security could make a laser cut car key more expensive than other types however, the reality is that they're still less expensive than purchasing a replacement from your dealer. Locksmiths can often cut these keys more quickly than car dealerships.

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, leading to a large repair cost. It is essential to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith that sells keys.

Bibens Ace South Burlington offers an extensive selection of car key FOB replacement keys for over 250 different makes and models of vehicles, in addition to sidewinder keys laser-cut. Visit us today to discover how you can save money on car fob replacements without having to go to an auto dealer!

Remote Keys

Not too long ago having lost or misplaced your car keys was not an issue. Get a locksmith on the phone to get a new key and then drive away. The cars of today are more technologically advanced and the keys that correspond to them can be harder to replace. They can also be harder for thieves copy. It's now more expensive to replace the key to a car that has been lost.

The cost of replacing a key will vary according to the kind. You can have a traditional key made for $10 at a local hardware store or employ an automotive locksmith who will visit you and make the key right there.

If you have an intelligent key, transponder keys with a switchblade or a transponder key with remote start, you'll need to visit your dealership to have it replaced. It can be costly and you may have to wait a long time before the manufacturer can send you a new key.

Like any other electronic device keys for cars will stop working without reason. This can be due to extreme heat or cold however, it can be due to an unsatisfactory battery or water in the keyfob following rain. It's worth resetting your car keys prior to calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it's not responding.

It's also important to know that your key fob will only work when it's within reach of the vehicle. This is why it's important to keep your key fob on you at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you're sure that you can return it quickly.

A majority of people lose their keys to their car by dropping them or misplacing keys. This can sometimes cause the key to break or get stuck in the lock. It's a good idea to always have a spare.