Blog entry by Katherina Hoskins
How to Find a Car Key Locksmith
It can be a frustrating experience to lose your car keys. Some people will go to the dealership to have a new key made, however this can be very costly.
Certified locksmiths can make new car keys without having the original key in your possession. Modern cars with transponder chips make it possible to make keys without a key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles. This adds a layer of security to make it more difficult for thieves to steal cars. They're much more difficult to duplicate since they contain a microchip in the key that transmits an unintentional radio signal that authenticates the key. This signal is only activated when the key comes within a certain range of the vehicle. If the signal isn't received, your vehicle will not start. This feature is an excellent way to prevent hotwiring.
To create a duplicate of a transponder, an automotive locksmith must program the microchip to be identical to the original. This process requires a specific tool that can communicate with the car to confirm that the unique serial number of the chip is stored in the database. Once the key is programmed, you are able to use it to unlock doors and turn on the ignition. Certain locksmiths will program the key on site while others require the transponder code from the car's computer.
Certain automobile brands, like Chevy and Ford, do not require a special tool to program their keys. Instead they can be programmed with an on-board programming process (OBP). If you have an OBP key and a functioning key fob that is working, you may think about sending it in for repair before purchasing the new one from an authorized dealer.
A locksmith can offer you an alternative key fob for a lower price if you are unable to repair the one you have. However, it's important to keep in mind that transponder keys are generally more expensive than bladed keys because they contain an additional element of technology.
Beishir Lock and Security is the top auto locksmith that can replace your transponder keys. Our experts can create and program new keys for cars quickly and at a reasonable cost. We're also available round all hours to assist you with any other automotive cheap locksmith for car keys near me requirements you might require.
Smart Keys
A smart key is a car key equipped with a specific microchip that lets drivers unlock their vehicles and start them without having to insert the physical key. These keys are usually designed like plastic cards and operate with wireless technology. The rolling codes guarantee that the code sent by each key matches the one on the car. This makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate your signal and gain entry into the car.
Smart keys are now available on a wide range of modern vehicles, which is a great convenience. The main drawback is that these keys can be costly to replace in the event of loss or damaged. Getting a replacement through the dealership can cost up to $220, and is not always easy to complete in an efficient manner. In this situation it's usually simpler and quicker to call an expert locksmith for assistance.
Automotive locksmiths are able to program a new smart key or FOB, and typically, much more quickly than dealerships. They can do this by connecting a computer with software specifically designed to program keys for cars and connecting it to the OBD port that is located under your dashboard. This allows them to enter the programming mode and change the data so that your new key can match up with the code on your vehicle's computer.
Smart key technology makes keys not only more convenient, but also safer for drivers and passengers. Smart keys can be erased so they no longer work and are not able to open or start your vehicle. A traditional key that is stolen can be easily copied by a criminal and you may end with a new car.
If you're looking to create duplicates for your family members, pet care providers, or employees, a locksmith in your car can assist. In fact, you can often save money by not going to the dealership and calling a local locksmith in Brooklyn. You can even ask them to modify your original remote so that it does not lock your car and only opens the trunk, for example when you press the button on the remote.
Lost Keys
Losing your car key is a very stressful experience. Many people are in a panic when they reach into their pockets and are unable to feel their keys. They might even begin to sweat and shake.
It's essential to stay calm when you lose your car keys and remember that you can get assistance. These can include roadside assistance, or a locksmith for your car keys. Insurance policies can cover locksmith costs in some cases. If you're in a hurry it could be helpful to contact the police or a towing company to assist with your lost keys.
The best method to avoid losing your keys to your car is to always keep an extra. Spare keys are usually affordable to make, however they will alleviate the hassle and cost of paying for an entirely new set.
Having a spare key can be useful when you're driving an older model car. These keys require different key programming than the modern key fobs. It's best to have an extra key in case your key gets lost or stolen.
If you can't find your car keys, you should check obvious places such as the pockets of your jacket or pants you wore the last time you had them. You should also check any bags that you had with you at the time. If you're unable to find them, ask your family and friends to search for areas where you may have hidden keys prior to. You can also contact your local locksmith and ask for help.
If you have an old-style key that does not come with a chip in it, the locksmith will be able assist you with that as well. Keys of this type have grooves on them which is why the locksmith can utilize specialized computer software to determine the car's key code and other requirements. They can then cut you a new key and program it to work with your vehicle.
Rekeying
One of the most essential parts of any car is the keys. The car will not start or run without them. It's not unusual for keys to go missing or get stolen. In this case you'll need to change the lock's key in order for another key to function. This will render the old key useless and will also prevent unauthorized access to the car.
A locksmith will usually rekey the locks on your car so that they can only be opened with the new key. This can be done for many reasons, but is most typically done when the original key has been lost or stolen. The locksmith will simply reposition the pins within the lock to ensure that the new cut on the new key works with it. This is safer than replacing the entire lock because you will still be able to use the spare key if you find it.
The cost to change the key on your car is contingent on the type of car and the lock. Most locksmiths will have a price list on their website that you can browse before contacting them. You should call several companies before making a final decision. A reputable company will have excellent reviews and will be able to give you an accurate estimate over the phone. You should also check the credentials of any locksmith prior to hiring them to fix your car. A good way to do this is to call your roadside assistance or insurance company first, since they usually have a pre-approved list of locksmiths who are certified.
Rekeying is an easy procedure that can be completed by any locksmith who is reputable. However, the cost will differ. The process of tracing the key's code using specialized software is the most critical aspect of changing the key. This helps the locksmith determine if the key is required to be cloned or programmed to the car's system. Once the key has been changed the locksmith will test it to make sure it functions properly and is able to unlock and start the car. It's best to have an expert do this in order to avoid doing it yourself can cause damage to the system.