Auto Locksmith Canterbury

What Type Of Services in Canterbury Do Auto Locksmiths Provide?

Canterbury auto locksmiths provide a variety of key retrieval services. Some of the most common services include:

Lost key replacement: If you've lost your car keys, an auto locksmith can create a new key to replace the lost one.
Broken key extraction: If your key is broken off inside the lock, an auto locksmith can extract the broken piece and create a new key to replace it.
Transponder key programming: Many modern cars have transponder keys, which use a small chip embedded in the key to communicate with the car's immobiliser system. An auto locksmith can program a new transponder key to work with your vehicle.
Remote key fob repair or replacement: If the buttons on your remote key fob are not working or the battery is dead, an auto locksmith can repair or replace the fob.
Ignition repair or replacement: An auto locksmith can diagnose and fix problems with your car's ignition, including worn or damaged keys, worn tumblers, and other issues.
Vehicle entry: If you are locked out of your car, an auto locksmith can gain access without damaging the vehicle.

These are some of the services that an auto locksmith in Canterbury can provide. However, services offered can vary depending on the locksmith.

How Sophisticated Are Car Keys In Newer Cars?

If you own a modern vehicle, you might have noticed that your keys are more complex than they used to be. This is because car manufacturers have gotten more sophisticated regarding their key technology. Some vehicles come with smart keys as an option, while others are standard. These are important to know about so you can keep your car safe and prevent theft. Generally, a keyless entry remote is a device that allows you to start the vehicle without physically having to pull the key out of your pocket. You can insert it into the car's dash or keep it in your purse. It can also unlock the doors or lock them remotely. The remote is usually made up of a microchip with a unique electronic code.

A transponder key is a newer form of vehicle key which utilises an inbuilt chip. When the driver puts the key into the car's ignition, the key transmits a signal to the receiver, sending a radio pulse to the control unit. Once the control unit receives the radio pulse, the control unit sends an alert to the engine control unit, which sends an electronic message to the transponder key. Once the car's computer recognises the rolling code from the transponder key, it will start the engine. Smart keys are another type of remote key that, unlike traditional key fobs, smart keys require you to remove the key from your pocket; the smart key is battery-operated. However, it still has buttons, which you can use to unlock or lock the doors or adjust the seat and stereo presets.

Most car keys are designed to work solely with the car's security system and are often referred to as immobiliser or transponder keys. They are similar to conventional keys but have a built-in chip that can only be used with your car's security system.

What Type Of Equipment Does An Auto Locksmith Use to Cut Keys?

Auto locksmiths use a variety of specialised equipment to cut keys. Some of the most common equipment used include:

Key-cutting machines: These machines are used to cut new keys to match the existing key or the lock. There are different types of key-cutting machines, including manual and computerised machines.
Code cutters: These machines use the key code or the lock code to cut a new key. They are beneficial for cutting keys for cars that use transponder technology.
Key duplicating machines: These machines make copies of existing keys. They can be used to make copies of house keys, car keys, and other types of keys.
Key impressioning tools: These tools are used to make a copy of a key by making an impression of the key's teeth on a blank key.
Key decoding tools: These tools are used to determine the code or the bitting of a key. They are handy for decoding keys for older cars that do not have a key code.
Locksmith pliers: These pliers are specially designed for locksmiths and have different jaws for tasks such as gripping, cutting and bending.
Lock pick set: These are sets of tools used to open locks without a key, and professional auto locksmiths primarily use them.

These are some of the equipment that an auto locksmith may use to cut keys. However, the specific tools used will depend on the type of key and the locksmith's personal preference.

How long does an Canterbury auto locksmith take to cut a new key for my vehicle?

When you are stranded outside your vehicle in the cold waiting for an auto locksmith to arrive, how long can you expect to wait for them to cut a new key for your vehicle? The time it takes an auto locksmith in Canterbury to cut a new key for your car can vary depending on a few factors. Some of the things that can affect the time it takes include:

The type of key: Some keys, such as standard metal keys, can be cut quickly, while others, such as transponder keys, may take longer to cut.
The type of machine used: Some key-cutting machines are faster than others. Computerised machines may be shorter than manual machines.
The skill and experience of the locksmith: More experienced locksmiths may be able to cut keys more quickly than less experienced locksmiths.
The availability of the key code: If the key code is not readily available, it might take longer to cut the new key.

In general, cutting a standard metal key for a car can take as little as a few minutes. Transponder keys can take a bit longer, around 15-30 minutes, and in some cases, the locksmith might need to program the new key to the vehicle, which could take longer. If a key code is unavailable, the auto locksmith might need to decode the lock or the key, which could take longer. However, most auto locksmiths will be able to give you a rough estimate of how long it will take to cut a new key for your car when you call them.

Is it a good idea to get duplicate car keys cut?

To avoid the stress involved in losing your one and only car key, for many motorists in Canterbury, it might be a wise choice to get duplicate car keys cut by an Canterbury auto locksmith. Having additional copies of your original key cut will enable you to have a backup key in case the original is lost or stolen.

Having a duplicate key can also make it easier for multiple people to access the car, such as family members or roommates. However, it is important to keep in mind that duplicate keys can also be used to gain unauthorised access to the car, so it is important to keep them secure and to only give them to trusted individuals. It's always better to contact a trusted Canterbury auto locksmith for these types of tasks, as a car dealership will likely charge you significantly more.

How much does it cost to get a duplicate car key cut?

The cost of having a duplicate car key cut can vary depending on several factors, such as the make and model of the car and whether the key is a standard mechanical key or a more advanced key with remote locking and unlocking capabilities often seen in modern cars built today. The cost of a standard mechanical key can range from £30 to £50. However, the price can be much higher for more advanced keys with remote capabilities, often ranging from £120 to £250 or more.

It's important to note that the cost can also vary depending on where you live in Canterbury and whether you are getting the key cut at a dealership or an independent auto locksmith. Additionally, if you have lost all your keys, you may have to pay more as the locksmith will have to program a new one. It is recommended to check with the dealership or locksmith to get an accurate quote for your car's specific make and model.

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