Keys Replacement For Cars
If you own a basic mechanical key it is likely to get a replacement at any hardware store for relatively cheap. The key must be programmed either by a dealership or locksmith.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to connect them to your vehicle. These keys are expensive, but many car insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical car keys, the ones that you insert into an ignition lock cylinder to start your vehicle. If your car has one of these keys, replacing the fob and keys is fairly inexpensive (if they get lost or stolen).
A locksmith can design a new basic key for less than what you purchase from a dealership. You can also ask a neighbour or friend who is able to program transponder keys (which are cheaper than the keys that are factory-made) to cut you a spare and program it. It is important to have a spare key as modern cars won't start in the event that the key does have the correct chip.
Transponder keys look a lot like mechanical keys, however they have a hidden electronic chip inside the base of their plastic design that communicates with your car's computer system. Your car will be able to recognize the code inside the chip and accept it, but it will refuse to start if any other code is utilized.
If your spare key has a chip, you'll need to bring it to a dealership to get it programmed. They will need to use a special machine to both cut the key and then program it. These machines are only available at specific dealerships, and it is unlikely that a locksmith have the equipment necessary to create a key with transponder.
It is expensive to replace keys with remotes, especially if require a spare. If you have just the key shank missing, and a working replacement fob, you could try reprogramming your fob on your own. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging. You're better off contacting an authorized dealer if you've lost both the fob and the key.
There are other types of keys for cars that require a specialized set of skills to replace, such as flip keys and smart keys. They are more complex and must be replaced by the dealer. Certain key fobs come with an electronic key that folds into the enclosure and opens a door or uses the use of a proximity sensor to open and start your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are likely to be found in cars that were constructed in the past 10 years. These keys are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key and an internal receiver in your car which are both programmed to communicate with each other in order to start the vehicle.
Transponder keys can be a great way of deterring theft, since they require two elements to start the car - the transmitter inside the key, and the receiver connected to the immobilizer. Without keys replacement and the immobilizer system being present, the car will not start and is impossible to connect hotwire.
The key chips are programmed with a unique serial number that is unique to your vehicle. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the serial number is sent to the immobilizer in the car and then verified to make sure it is in line and allows the engine to start. This security feature is only blocked by a specially designed device that can read the chip and match it with another car.
When you have a transponder key replaced it is necessary to visit a locksmith that has the tools needed to reprogram the key into your vehicle. Some car dealerships offer this service, however they tend to be more expensive than a independent locksmith due to their overhead.
The process of getting a new car keys that comes with a chip it can be a very complex procedure. The key needs to be cut using a specific machine to get the right tracks which can later be programmed to assign the key to your car. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to do it properly.
Some of the less complicated chip keys can be copied at the majority of auto parts stores, but you must know the serial number of the original key to ensure that the correct information is programmed into the new key. Many people make the mistake of going to their dealer in search of a copy of a chip key only to end up paying overpriced prices.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, also known as sidewinder keys due their distinctive winding cuts to the shank of the key they add a layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great protection against auto theft since they require special equipment to duplicate.
They also come with built-in chips to stop the copying of keys by unauthorized people from starting your car. They also typically contain a unique code the key, which must be programmed to your specific car in order to unlock and start it. This extra level of security will safeguard your investment and prevent thieves from trying to steal your vehicle in exchange for parts or to resell it.
In terms of design laser-cut keys are different from conventional mechanical cut keys due to having fewer carved-out grooves on the key. The key shaft is larger, which is a indication that this isn't a standard car key. Locksmiths typically make use of milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. This machine is similar to a drill bit and it's designed to remove metal at precise angles.
They are the most secure keys that you can purchase for your vehicle. They are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be done be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. They're not like traditional keys. They're constructed from a tiny piece of steel which is cut into a shape and then cut with the laser in the factory. This kind of key can be able to withstand a great deal of wear and tear, and is one of the best choices for protecting your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it can fold in the fob or pop out at the touch of the button. These keys are used in German automobiles, and offer an extra layer of security against car thieves. They also make it difficult for a thief to pick or pick-lock your car because the cylinder is extremely tough and difficult to break into.
Smart Keys
Contrary to the conventional single piece of carved metal smart keys make use of radio-frequency identification, or RFID for short, to communicate with the car. They are equipped with a chip that has an unique code that is encoded on each key. The key sends a message to the onboard computer in your vehicle each time you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer then signals the appropriate frequency which allows you to open your car and start it.
The chip in the smart key is equipped with several security features to protect it from theft. First, the key emits a very low-frequency signal which isn't detected by any receiver but your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will trigger a different one that is a unique sequence that only your vehicle will understand. This will stop a criminal with a high-tech background from using an external pulse generator to "fool" the system and create the key function for other vehicles.
In addition to locking and opening the car, some smart keys have special features such as storing specific preferences for drivers, remotely opening windows or the sunroof, and many more. These features are accessible by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button or, in certain instances you can do this by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Certain key fobs are opened by placing the dead key in a slot, or by placing it near an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Certain key fobs come with mechanical (fully emergency) key blade that is inside the key.
Replacing a smart key usually requires a visit to the dealer, who will either have the replacement on hand or make it available for you to purchase. The dealer will also have to program your new key to recognize your car. You can also visit an locksmith to get your replacement key fob to be programmed and then replaced. Locksmiths may charge more than the dealer, but they'll likely be able to do the job faster and at a lower cost.