Key Replacements For Cars: 10 Things I Wish I'd Known Earlier

· 6 min read
Key Replacements For Cars: 10 Things I Wish I'd Known Earlier

Key Replacements For Cars

Losing your car keys is never fun, but it's even less pleasant in the absence of spares. That's why it's important to have a few key replacement options in the back of your mind.

Write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will assist you in finding a dealer or locksmith that supports your model.

Mechanical Keys

The most basic car key is one that does not come with an electronic chip. A couple of dollars can be purchased at a local hardware store or locksmith shop to get duplicates. If you've lost your original keys or it was stolen, you will require contacting a professional who specializes in automotive keys replacement. The cost will differ based on your vehicle's make and model.

If you have a newer vehicle, the key you have is a transponder that has an electronic chip that is hidden within. These keys resemble mechanical keys, but they transmit a code to your car when you insert them into the ignition. This is a confirmation that the key is a compatible one. If the identifier codes don't match, then your car won't start.

This technology can add an extra layer of security to your car, but it also makes it more difficult for those who aren't part of the authorized dealer network to pair keys to the car you own. You'll need to go to your local car dealer to exchange the transponder. You'll also need to provide proof of ownership. This can be a hassle and can add to the overall cost of the service.

Laser-cut keys or sidewinder car keys are a type that are more secure due to their unique design. They also have a thicker shank. These keys are harder than traditional keys to duplicate and are more likely to be seen on vehicles that have advanced features like push-button starts.

Another kind of car key is a remote-key fob, or smart key. These are devices that resemble remotes and can be used to lock and unlock doors. They also contain a key with transponder for features such as remote-start.

Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular as a means to decrease thefts and increase the experience of motorists. They can be linked to your smartphone and used to unlock doors and start your car. They are also more secure than traditional keys. They also offer the added benefit of being able to turn on your car from anywhere in the world, so long you have an internet connection to your phone.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are equipped with the microchip that transmits an audio signal when they are close proximity to the car. The radio signals coming from the vehicle energize the chip, which transmits an identification code to the vehicle computer. If the computer is able to recognize the code, it will disable immobilizers and allow the vehicle to begin. If the code isn't recognized the vehicle will turn off. These keys are more difficult to duplicate than non-transponder keys. Due to this, they are regarded as a more secure option.

However, that doesn't mean they're totally safe. Some thieves who are skilled and knowledgeable have found ways to open cars using these keys. If you're concerned about the possibility of someone being able to hot wire your vehicle, it could be better to opt for an alternative key that is not transponder-compatible.

There are many different kinds of transponder keys, such as the blade type that must be placed in the ignition, and the fob style that stays in the pocket or purse. They all require an expert to program them for your specific vehicle. If you're seeking to replace the transponder that was stolen or lost key, it's best to visit an automotive locksmith rather than your dealership. They have the specialist equipment needed to program your key.

The final type of key we will refer to is the high-security key. These keys are a bit more expensive than the regular transponder keys or chip keys however they offer greater levels of security. These keys are more secure as they're laser-cut, which makes them difficult to duplicate. This also makes them a lot more resistant to hot wiring which is the most frequent way that car thieves steal vehicles.

Which type of key is right for you? It's all about your needs and preferences. Transponder keys are a great option if you want something more secure and hard to duplicate. If you're not worried about this, a non-transponder key will probably be the better option. Beishir Lock and Security offers the highest quality transponder keys at a fraction of the cost of your local car dealer.

Laser-Cut Keys

Traditional keys function by using a blade that moves over pins in the lock cylinder. Keys like these are easy for anyone to copy and they don't come with any security features. Laser-cut keys are different. They have a consistent thickness in the middle, and they have fewer grooves. This alters how the key moves within the lock cylinder. This design helps make keys more durable and less likely to pick. Laser-cut keys have an embedded transponder the key, which is unique to each vehicle. This stops unauthorized use of the vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are more secure. They are often referred to as sidewinder keys or internal cut keys because of the notch in the center of the key blade. The notch permits the key blades to slide into the lock on both sides to open it. Keys cut with lasers have a distinctive pattern that is difficult to duplicate.

Laser-cut keys are a better alternative to traditional keys. They are more unlikely than other keys to be stolen or lost. However they cost more than other types of car keys because they require special machinery to cut and program them. This is why it's important to locate a locksmith who provides high-quality keys and has access to the necessary technology.

Laser-cut keys are becoming increasingly popular due to their increased security features. They have a distinct key pattern, making it difficult to use the same key for multiple vehicles. This feature helps to deter car thefts, since it takes longer and more effort to make a laser-cutted key to open a car than a conventional one. While these keys provide greater security, they are more costly to make a spare due to the transponder that requires specialized programming. This kind of key can be found in a variety of automobiles, both sports and luxury. It is recommended to find a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to create and program these keys.

Smart Keys

Smart keys are a kind of car key for new cars that uses radio frequency identification (RFID), a technology, to communicate with your car. The key is encased with an unique code that can only be recognized by your car. When the key is in the range of your car, it can unlock doors and also start the motor.

Smart key systems are becoming popular because they offer convenience and security. Many smart keys come with the feature of proximity that will activate courtesy lighting when you approach the car.  vehicle key replacement  can help you locate your car when you are in a parking lot. It's particularly useful when your hands are full with groceries or other things.

Certain smart keys also come with a remote starter that allows you to start your car by using your phone. This can be particularly useful when you're working late or need to take your children to school.

Although smart keys are more secure than traditional car keys However, they have a few weaknesses. Hackers can get access to encrypted signals sent to the car using the key and use them to steal vehicles. Therefore, it is essential to keep the smart key in a secure place and ensure that the battery is fully charged.

Apart from the convenience, another advantage of smart keys is that it can help you save money on fuel. The car will know the moment when the key is closed and start up automatically, which can be an effective way to lower the carbon footprint of your car.

Smart keys come with additional features that can enhance the experience of driving. Some smart keys, for instance, can store settings specific to the owner. These include the position of the seats, settings for the exterior mirror, and climate control. Some smart keys have an inbuilt tracker which can track the location of your car.


As more manufacturers begin offering smart key systems as standard equipment, they will become the norm. If you lose yours, it is recommended to connect with a locksmith to get it replaced immediately. In most cases, if you have proof of ownership, the dealer can provide an alternative and program it to your car.