3 Things You Need To Know About Your Laser Cut Key
Precision laser cut keys have some great security features for your vehicle that the old style of keys do not. It is a good idea to know some facts about these expensive and computerized vehicle keys, especially if you are new to their technology. Here are three things to know about laser cut keys that will help you have a better experience with them.
They are Expensive to Replace
If you buy a used car from a dealership, and the sales person only hands you one laser cut key, make sure to get a duplicate laser cut key included in the sale. Besides being an extra expense you shouldn't have to pay for when you are already buying an expensive vehicle, it is smart to keep an extra key in case of an emergency.
It is never a good idea to have only one key for your vehicle. If your only key gets lost, it can be quite expensive to have your vehicle towed and a new key ordered and cut. In the meantime you won't have a vehicle to drive until you get a new laser cut key made.
A second laser cut key is also handy for your spouse or significant other, or another family member to keep and use.
Laser cut key keys can be expensive when you need to buy a replacement. They can cost on average from $150 to $250, depending upon the type of vehicle you are driving. Hopefully, most used car dealerships will offer to have another key cut for you when you buy a vehicle from them, especially when you are giving them your business. If you don't make sure to ask for a second laser cut key, then later on you will be frustrated when you find out the price to buy your own laser cut key.
They Have Better Security Features Than Regular Keys
Laser cut keys are cut with a precision machine that uses a computerized code specific to your vehicle's ignition. The key fob that you get from the dealership is cut specifically for your vehicle, and it has a programmed transponder chip inside that alerts your vehicle to start.
If a thief were to get a duplicate laser cut key made for your vehicle, they would not necessarily be able to start your vehicle. If a duplicate laser cut key is used in the ignition of your vehicle, but it does not have the right coded chip inside programmed correctly, it is useless. The vehicle's electronic ignition control will not allow the engine to start.
Get Duplicate Laser Cut Keys Made at a Certified Locksmith or Dealership
Most hardware chain stores can make a duplicate laser cut key when they have the laser cut key machine. But, they may not be able to program the key's chip with the right information, which makes the key useless.
You must get a replacement laser cut key at the dealership so you can get the chip programmed with the right code.
You can also get the laser cut key chip programmed by an auto locksmith. Just make sure they are a certified locksmith. There are a lot of places out there that will cut a laser cut key the wrong way. It is better to find a reputable locksmith to make your precision cut laser key and have it made right instead of paying a little bit less and getting a key that doesn't work at all.
It is important and helpful to know some facts about laser cut keys and how their security features can help you. Make sure to are prepared with a duplicate key, but also know where you can get a replacement if you ever lose one.
