Car key cutting is more than simply shaping an object of metal. It is a complex process that ensures security, functionality and long-term use of keys.
cut car key is not uncommon to lose your car keys or even have them break into the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your car you'll require a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips will likely be fitted in vehicles built within the past 20 years. These chips are tiny microchips inside the key's handle that send a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer when you use it. The computer in the car checks the digital serial number of the chip before giving the car permission to begin. This prevents car thieves from taking over your vehicle, as they would need to know the unique serial number.
The microchip inside your car key sends an unintentional radio signal to the receiver inside the car. The radio signal activates the microchip, which transmits an informational code to the car's onboard computer. The car will recognize this code and will only allow it to start only if the key is the correct one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods to steal cars.
Car keys with chips can be made at a locksmith that offers these services. They can also be bought at certain automotive stores like AutoZone. They have a vast variety of keys and can assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your vehicle. They can also help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is required to make it work.
You can also purchase laser cut keys that are more secure than traditional flat keys. They are more secure than traditional flat keys due to having locks that are harder to pick. They can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting machines, or with specialized software. This technology is most commonly found in high-end cars however, it is now available on a variety of affordable models.
Another type of car key that is hard to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. The keys have a resistor that is black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of a variety of values to stop it from starting a vehicle it's not intended to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a specific key programming machine that is only found at a few locksmiths.
Keys to VATS
Before transponder keys and vehicles with computer chips built in to control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a regular key that has a resistor pellet embedded inside it to confirm that the correct key is being used to start the car. The black VATS Pellet in the middle of a VATS Key is not a smart chip as present on modern keys. It is merely carbon or a block that is sized to hold an electrical resistance.
GM used 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets and attached them to key blades so that, when the key is turned on, a coded message is sent to the module. If it matches the resistance value of the transistor in the VATS pellet, the relay in the starter circuit is activated and the engine will start to run. This doesn't make a car safe from theft, but it will delay the theft by at least 15 to 20 minutes.
After a prolonged period of usage the VATS module could begin to wear out. Each time a key is inserted into the ignition, it moves two tiny wires inside the ignition, and with time, the wires may start to break. When enough wires are broken, the signal to the module gets lost and it won't start the car.
You can solve this issue at home yourself by decoding your VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance value of a key with a multimeter. 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 method is also a great way to test a new key to determine whether it works in your car. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. Otherwise the key could have an incorrect VATS, and will not work in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs
Today's key fobs do more than just unlock or start the car. They often have advanced features that a lot of owners are not aware of. They can be used as a security gadget or as a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door remotely, make chirping noises to aid in locating your vehicle when you're in a hurry or activate it by pressing a button. This is more than you could ever think of from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due to their extra functions. They also require to be programmed at the dealer.
In fact, some retailers will charge upwards of $100 to replace a single smart key fob. It's a huge cost to pay for a product that is often jostled in purses and pockets where it could be damaged, thrown or exposed to extreme temperatures and moisture. Certain automakers have developed strategies to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. These are often combined with a remote start hack that gives thieves access to your vehicle's settings by the transmission of a fake signal from another transmitter near.
One way to protect the smart key fob is to put it in an aluminum case or a dedicated RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. However, the necessity of removing the key fob from its protective case each time you need to use it undermines the convenience of the technology.
Some newer policies, such as auto club memberships and extended warranties can cover the cost of a replacement fob or reimburse you in the event that it is lost. You can also save money on new car dealer charges and have your fob cut at the hardware store or locksmith that offers key-fob cloning services.
The decision to buy a new fob is dependent on the significance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. You should always keep a spare fob or key on hand in case you misplace yours. And if you need to purchase a replacement, Batteries Plus has a vast selection of fobs for the majority of cars and trucks. In addition, our quick and efficient service is 50% less than what you would pay at a dealership.
Traditional Keys
The traditional car key is one piece of metal with a series grooves carved into it. These grooves are designed to fit certain locks. These keys can open your locks and begin your car, assuming you haven't replaced them by the remote key or smart key. The only downside of using an old-fashioned car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional car key is lost or broken you'll need to visit an Gainesville Locksmith to have a new one made.
There are a variety of choices to pick from based on how long it's been since you've were able to cut your keys. Certain keys employ mechanical cutting machines to make copies, whereas others use laser-cut keys that are designed with enhanced security features in mind.
Some of these advanced features that come with the modern types of keys include encryption as well as other anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption ensures that only the correct key is used to start your car which makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Other security features to prevent theft include transponder chips that are embedded into the keys to connect with your vehicle and allow it to only function when it's within a specific range of your car.
If you choose to use a conventional, standard key, a locksmith is able to create a new key with a standard key cutting machine that can be found at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than the key fob or transponder key, and you'll be able to use your locks, doors and trunk.
Another alternative is to have your traditional car key replaced with a laser cut version with a unique pattern. These keys were introduced in the early 1990s and are an increasingly popular choice for those who want to secure their vehicles. Laser cut keys are typically equipped with transponder chip that is programmed to work only with your vehicle. If these chips aren't installed in your vehicle it won't receive the signals coming from the key and won't be able to start.
