Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is more than simply shaping the metal. It is a complicated procedure that ensures security, functionality and long-term use of the keys.
It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car, or have them break through the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your car you'll require a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed within the last 20 years, it is likely to have transponder chips. These microchips are in the key's handle and transmit a signal to your vehicle's onboard computers when you turn the key. The computer on board scans the digital serial numbers in the chip and only allows the car to start if it's the correct one. This stops thieves from taking over your vehicle since they'd need to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip in your car keys transmits an low-level radio signal to the car's receiver. This radio signal activates your microchip that then transmits the instructions to the onboard computer of the car. The car will only start only if it recognizes the code. This prevents the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of stealing cars.
Car keys with chips can be made by locksmiths that offer these services. They can also be bought at some automotive retailers, such as AutoZone. These stores have a wide variety of keys and can assist you in selecting the best one for your vehicle. They can help you program your car's chip that is required for the device to function.
You can also purchase laser cut keys that are more secure than flat keys. These keys have a lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick, and they can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting machines or specialized software. This technology is more prevalent in high-end vehicles, however it is now accessible in a variety of affordable cars too.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is another type of key that is difficult to duplicate. They have a resistor that is black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of a variety of values to prevent it from starting a vehicle it's not intended to. They are expensive and require a key programming machine, which is only available through certain locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys and cars with computer chips that control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a standard key that has a resistor pellet embedded in it to confirm that the correct key is being used to start the vehicle. The VATS pellet in black that is located in the middle of the VATS Key isn't a smart chip like those used on the majority of modern keys. It is merely carbon or a block which is sized to have an electrical resistance.
GM employed 15 different resistances for VATS pellets and connected them to key blades so that when the key was turned on, a coded message is sent to the module. If the signal matches that of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in the starter circuit will turn on and the engine will begin to run. This doesn't make a vehicle safe from theft however it will delay the theft by at least 15 to 20 minutes.
Unfortunately, after a significant amount of use, the VATS module in your car may start to wear out. Every time a key is inserted into the ignition, it moves two tiny wires inside the ignition, and, over time, the wires can begin to break. When enough wires have been broken the signal is lost to the module and the car will not begin.
You can resolve this issue at home by decoding your VATS code. You'll require a multimeter as well as a chart to determine the resistance value of your key, but it is not that difficult. You can find the resistance value by placing one of the leads on the prongs made of metal on both sides of your key.
This is a great way to test out a new key and check whether it works in your car. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. Otherwise, the key may have an incorrect VATS, and will not work in your car.
Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys
Key fobs today can do more than unlock or start a car. They are also used as a security device and burglar deterrent, with a lot of them incorporating advanced features that owners might not even know about. They can lock and unlock your door remotely, make chirping noises to help you locate your vehicle in a parking lot or activate it by pressing a button. This is a lot more than you could ever imagine from a traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their extra functionality. They also have to be programmed at the dealer.
In fact, some dealers cost upwards of $100 to replace a single smart key fob. It's a steep cost to pay for a product that is frequently tossed around in purses and pockets in the event that it gets damaged, dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Some automakers have developed methods to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic attacks, such as relay attacks. They are usually paired with remote start hacks that allows thieves access to your vehicle's settings via the transmission of a fake signal by another transmitter nearby.
One way to protect the smart key fob is to store it in a metal case or an RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. The ease of use of this technology is diminished if you have to take your key fob out every time you want to use it from the case.
Fortunately, some newer car-insurance policies and auto club memberships and extended warranty insurance policies will cover the cost of a replacement or reimburse you for the lost fob. You can also save money on dealer charges and have your fob cut at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store that offers key-fob cloning services.
The decision to purchase a new fob is largely dependent on the importance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. In any event you should have an extra fob or key in case you lose it. If you have to buy a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a wide selection of fobs for most cars and trucks. Plus, we offer an efficient, quick service that costs roughly 50% less than you'd buy from a dealership.
Traditional Keys
The classic car key is one piece of metal with a series grooves carved into it. These grooves are designed to fit specific locks. These keys will unlock your locks and start the car, provided you don't swap them out to a smart or remote key. The only drawback to using a traditional key is that it needs to be physically inserted into the ignition to start the car. If your key from the past is damaged, lost or stolen, you'll have to visit the Gainesville locksmith to have new keys made from the blank.
Depending on how long has passed since you last cut your keys There are many alternatives to select from when it comes to getting another copy made. Some keys use mechanical cutting machines to create copies, while others employ laser-cut keys that are specifically designed with enhanced security features in mind.
Modern keys come with advanced features such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. car key cutting cost ensures that only the right key is used to open your vehicle which makes it harder for thieves to duplicate or pick locks. Transponder chips are another security feature that prevents theft. They are embedded in the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This means that it can only function only when you're within a specific distance.
If you opt to use a traditional standard key, a locksmith can make a new one with a standard key cutting machine that can be found at most hardware stores. This is cheaper than a key fob or a transponder. you will still be able to use your trunk locks, trunk locks, and doors.
You can also replace your standard car keys with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. These keys were first introduced in the early 1990s and are an increasingly popular choice for those looking to secure their automobiles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chips that are programmed to work only with your vehicle. If these chips are not installed in your vehicle, they will not respond to the signals generated by the key.