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| Q. What is a Transponder or "chip" key? |
| A. A transponder key is a key that has a device embedded inside that transmits and receives data. These devices contain one of over a trillion unique codes. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the transponder sends a signal to a disc-shaped antenna mounted behind the steering wheel. If the signal is recognized by the vehicles immobilizer, then the engine will start. If the signal is not recognized or has been weakened by damage to the transponder then the immobilizer will shut down vital operating systems to the engine and it will not run. This technology greatly reduces the risk of auto theft and provides a peace of mind for the vehicles owner. |
| Q. Why are transponder keys so expensive? |
| A. They are expensive simply because it costs locksmiths thousands of dollars a year to keep up to date with the latest software and tools to program keys into your vehicle. We are normally able to save you the hassle and cost of getting your vehicle towed in to the dealer and having to wait a day for them to replace the keys. |
| Q. What are High Security or Laser Keys and can you make them? |
| A. Contrary to its name, lasers are not used to cut these keys. This term refers to keys with the milling on the side rather than on the top and bottom. For years only high end manufacturers like Mercedes and BMW used this style of higher security. These days however, A good number of vehicles including Honda, GM, VW, Lexus, Infinity, Volvo, Saab, Audi and many more use them. Getting a copy of one of these keys can sometimes be very difficult. Getting a key replaced when there are no keys can even be a nightmare. That is of course if you don't call us. We have the ability and equipment to copy, or even generate a new one of these "laser cut" keys. To sweeten the deal, we come to you! No driving, no waiting rooms, no hassle. |
| Q. My key looked worn so I had a new one made. Why did that not fix my problem? |
| A. Hardly a day goes by that I dont hear the following statement. "There's nothing wrong with my key, it's brand new." It is a common response When I suggest that a new key, CODE cut to factory specifications might be all that is necessary to solve a lock problem.
There is a world of difference between a brand new COPY of a worn out key and a brand NEW key. It is similar to making a photocopy of a photocopy vs a photocopy of the original. The same holds true for a duplicate copy of a worn out key. It looks like a new key, and is in fact a new key, but the critical dimensions are incorrect. The only correct solution to the worn key problem is for a knowledgeable locksmith to generate a code cut key restoring the cuts to the original specs. |
Q. Why won't my Focus ignition turn? |
| A. Ford introduced the Focus in 2000. This vehicle uses a sidebar ignition that has a cast aluminum plug. The plug wears out allowing the wafers (the smalls bits inside that make a lock work) to fall out of the track within its respective chamber. Once a wafer is out of "synch" the lock will stop turning. This process is usually somewhat gradual, so if you've noticed that the lock requires some convincing before you can start the car then it's time to get it fixed before you get stranded.
Getting the car to a repair shop when the ignition won't turn will require a tow and the possibility of having to drag the car onto a flatbed. Once at the repair shop the ignition has to be turned one last time to remove it or some will use a dent puller with its related risk of damage to the housing to get the ignition out. Now you'll need a replacement ignition! The parts store will have a lock that comes with a different key than the door. The keys will need to be programmed and you'll now have a car that requires two keys. If you have gone to the dealer they will pin up a lock to match your key, but theyall more than likely want to cut new keys which also require programming. Add it all up and you have a cost and time nightmare. We encourage all who have or have begun to have this problem to investigate their options and costs. Check the cost of a tow and the lock replacement. Don't forget to factor in the lost time and the need to get to the shop once the repair is complete. Budget Locksmith has replaced hundreds of Ford Focus ignitions, on location, usually the same day within hours of receiving the call. We code a factory replacement that doesn't contain the design related deficiencies of the original ignition. Ford finally changed to this new design in 2005. Having coded the replacement lock to your original key there will be no need for the hassle of two different keys. Basically it's like this, It WILL happen, and when it does there is an option besides a tow to the dealer and a much thinner wallet. We can save you hundreds by replacing your lock with a high quality factory part that has been re-tooled to not fail like the original. |
| Q. Do you service high end model vehicles like the Mercedes Sprinter, Saab 9-3 or 9-5? |
| A. YES! We service all high end vehicles, whether it be a Mercedes Sprinter, Saab 9-3 or 9-5 or even a Dodge Sprinter. We use the top of the line, latest locksmithing technologies that are capable of reflashing, programming and even creating keys for vehicles like the Mercedes, Saab, Lexus, or even a Dodge Sprinter. |