Are You Responsible For A Car Key Replacements Budget? 12 Top Notch Ways To Spend Your Money Car Key Replacements

Losing a key can be costly, whether it's a standard lock-and-key or a more sophisticated key fob. It's recommended to keep a spare key in your wallet.

If you lose a key, the cheapest alternative is to locate an auto locksmith. A dealership can be more expensive, but it is a good option.

Mechanical Keys

Your car keys are likely to be mechanical if you have an older vehicle that doesn't use key fobs. The standard keys are made from metal such as brass, steel or a combination of brass and nickel. They are cut using a key duplicator, with the original key placed against one side of the machine and an unaligned blank key placed next to it to serve as a template. The original key is then cut with a specially-designed cutter to create a duplicate.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips are integrated in the majority of newer automobiles keys. These chips are used to unlock the car and begin it. These chips are usually placed inside the key head, but can also be located in the ignition. When the key is turned on in the ignition, the transponder emits an electronic signal that is picked up by the computer system in the car. The computer checks the signal and makes sure that it is in line with the correct serial number.

It's nearly impossible to start cars without the owner's key. If the signal does not match, the car will not start and remain locked. This is a huge benefit to help deter car thefts, as it lowers the risk of someone else driving off with your vehicle.

Transponder keys cost more than a flat metal key. The transponder is a chip that is expensive to manufacture and install into the car key. Typically, these types keys can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased through the car dealership.

A locksmith can provide more reliable and affordable transponder key replacements. Beishir Lock and Security has many of these keys and can re-program the chip right on the spot, allowing it to work with your car at less than the dealership.

Be sure to compare quotes when shopping for a replacement transponder key. The final cost is determined by a variety of factors, including the model and make of your vehicle, any additional features you have on the key (such as a remote-control key fob) and the location where you choose to copy it.

In the end, it is important consider the advantages of a transponder in comparison to the cost and the convenience. Transponder keys may be worth it in the long run in the event that you are concerned about safety and protection. Additionally, many modern vehicles have an immobilizer that will not allow them to start if a non-transponder keys is utilized, so this is another factor to consider.

Laser-Cut Keys

While they might seem like something from a sci-fi movie laser cut keys are actually quite common and offer an additional security measure for vehicles. They require specialized key cutting equipment to make 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. This allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder either direction and still operate it. In the end, they tend to be more sturdy and stronger than standard keys.

They are also utilized as a bonus to open certain high-security locks. The slits are tooled to a specific depth, which matches the codes of the different automobile manufacturers. The right depth is vital as an incorrectly cut blade can damage the key cutting machine and cause the key to stop working shortly after being put into the lock cylinder.

The greater thickness and unique slits in car keys cut with lasers make them less prone to being copied or taken. Some keys include a transponder that is specific to your car. This means that if someone copies your car key even if it has a transponder chips it will not be able start your vehicle.


Although these additional layers of security may make a laser cut car key more expensive than other types, the fact is that they're still less expensive than getting a new replacement from your dealership. Additionally, locksmiths are often able to cut these keys faster than a car dealership.

A car key that is laser cut's quality can make a big difference. The wrong blade could damage the machine that cuts keys or lock cylinder, leaving you with a huge repair cost. It's vital to purchase your laser-cut car key from a locksmith that sells keys.

Bibens Ace South Burlington has a large selection of replacement car key FOB keys for over 250 different models and makes of vehicles. We also offer laser-cut sidewinder keys. Visit us today to find out how you can save money on replacements for your car fob, without having to go to an auto dealer!

Remote Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could call an locksmith, receive an alternate and then drive away. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and the corresponding keys are harder to replace and harder for thieves to duplicate. This means that when you lose your car key it will be more expensive than before to replace it.

Depending on the type of key that you have, the cost to replace it will vary. For keys that are traditional you can have one made for $10 at a hardware store, or you can get an automotive locksmith to visit you and create a key right there.

You'll have to take your smart key, transponder that has switchblade or transponder that has remote start to the dealership to be replaced. It can be very expensive and could take a while to order the new key from the manufacturer, which could delay getting back on the road.

The car key may cease to function without a clear reason, just like other electronic devices. Usually, this is due to extreme cold or heat but it could be due to an ineffective battery or key fob from rain or simply wearing out over time. It's worth resetting your car key prior to calling an auto locksmith if you notice that it is not responding.

You should also be aware that your keyfob will only work if you're within the reach of the vehicle. This is the reason it's essential to keep your key fob on your person at all times, and not let it leave your pocket unless you're sure that you can return it quickly.

The most frequent way to lose keys to cars is losing it or dropping it. This can sometimes cause the key to break or get stuck in the lock. It's a good idea to always have an extra.