Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is more than simply shaping a piece of metal. It is a complicated procedure that ensures security, functionality and long-term use of keys.
It is not unusual to lose your car keys or even have it break in the lock. To ensure that you can always drive your car, you will need a new key cut.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the past 20 years, it is likely that it has transponder chips. These chips are small microchips located in the key's handle that send an electronic signal to the car's onboard computer whenever you use it. The computer onboard examines the serial number digitally of the chip before allowing the car to start. This prevents car thieves from stealing your car, as they would need to be aware of the unique serial number.
car key cutting and programming in your car key transmits an low-level radio signal to the car's receiver. The radio signal activates the microchip, and it then sends a code to the car's onboard computer. The car will only start if it recognizes this code. This will stop the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of taking cars.
Car keys with chips can be made by locksmiths that offer these services. They are also available at some automotive retailers like AutoZone. They have a huge selection of keys, and can help you find the right one for your vehicle. They can even assist you to program the chip to your vehicle, which is essential to make it work.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys feature a lock cylinder that is much harder to pick, and are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or special software. This type of technology is typically found in high-end vehicles, however it is now accessible in a variety of affordable cars too.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different kind of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys have a black resistor on the key blade that is programmed with one of 15 possible values to stop them from starting a vehicle that it's not designed to. They are expensive and require the use of a key programming machine which is only available at a few locksmiths.
Keys to VATS
Before transponder keys or cars with computer chips built in to control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses an ordinary key with a resistor pellet embedded inside it to confirm that the correct key is used to start the car. The VATS pellet in black located in the middle of a VATS Key isn't a smart chip as found on most modern keys. It is simply carbon or a block that is sized to provide an electrical resistance value.
GM employed 15 different resistance values for the VATS pellets. They connected them to the blade of the key, so that when the key is turned on the ignition a coded signal will be transmitted to the module. If the signal matches the signal of the transistor in a VATS pellet then the relay in starter circuit will activate and the engine will begin to run. This does not make a car safe from burglary, but it can delay a thief for at least fifteen to twenty minutes.
Unfortunately, after a lot of use the VATS module in your car could begin to wear out. The two wires that connect the ignition are moved every time a key is introduced. As time passes the wires could start to break. Once enough wires break, the signal to the module gets lost and the module won't be able to start the car.
You can solve this problem at home by decoding your VATS key. You'll require a multimeter and a chart to find out the resistance value of your key, but it's not that difficult. All you need to do is place one of the leads of your ohm meter onto the prongs made of metal hanging out on both sides of the key, and then read the ohm meter's display to find out the resistance of your key.
This method can also be a good method to test the new key to determine whether it will work in your vehicle. Make sure you remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, or else the new key could have an incorrect VATS value and may not work in your car.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs today are more than just unlock or start the vehicle. Many of them have advanced features that most owners are unaware of. They can be used as a security device or as a theft deterrent. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, emit noises that help you find your vehicle in a parking lot or let you summon your vehicle by pressing a button on your smartphone. This is more functionality than you obtain from a traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due to their extra functionality. They also need to be programmed by the dealer.
In fact, some retailers will charge up to $100 to replace one smart key fob. This is a significant amount to pay for a product that spends much of its time jostled around in purses and pockets, which is where it's easily dropped, damaged, or exposed to extreme moisture and temperatures. Some automakers have developed methods to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic threats, including relay attacks. These are often combined with remote start hacks which allows thieves to access your vehicle's settings by the transmission of a fake signal by another transmitter near.
To safeguard a smart fob to protect it, you can place it in a casing made of metal or even an RFID blocking case. This will block the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from its case that is protected each time you want to use it undermines the convenience of the technology.
Certain policies that are more recent, such as auto club memberships as well as extended warranties can cover the cost of replacing the fob or reimburse you if it is lost. You can also avoid paying dealership fees by having your fob copied by a locksmith or hardware retailer that provides key-fob cloning.
The decision to buy an additional fob is dependent on the importance of your car's keyless start and entry functions. In any event it is advisable to keep a spare fob or key in case in case you lose yours. Batteries Plus offers a large choice of replacement fobs that fit most cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and efficient service is 50% less than the price you would spend at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
The traditional car key is one piece of metal with a series of grooves cut into it. These grooves are designed to fit specific locks. car key cutting cost can unlock your locks and start your vehicle, provided that you haven't replaced them by a remote key or smart key. The only drawback to using the traditional key is that it must be physically placed into the ignition to start the car. If your traditional car key is lost or broken, you will need to visit an Gainesville locksmith to get a new one made.
Depending on how much time has passed since the last time you had your keys cut, there are several different options available for you to pick from when it comes time to get another copy made. Certain keys are cut with mechanical machines, while others are laser-cut with security features that are enhanced.
Modern keys are equipped with advanced features, such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption ensures that only the right key is used to start your vehicle making it much more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick locks. Transponder chips are another anti-theft feature. They are embedded in the key and communicate with your vehicle. This means that it can only function only when you're within a specific distance.
If you choose to use a traditional, standard key, a locksmith could create a new one using a standard key cutter machine which can be purchased at the majority of hardware stores. This is cheaper than a key fob, or a transponder, and you are still able to operate your trunk, locks and doors.
You can also replace your standard car keys with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. These keys were introduced in the 1990s and have become an increasingly popular choice for those who wish to secure their automobiles. Laser cut keys typically come with transponder chips that are programmed to work only with your specific vehicle. If these chips aren't installed in your car it won't receive the signals from the key, and will not start.