Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting the car key is more than just bending a piece metal. It is a sophisticated procedure that ensures security, functionality and the longevity of keys.
It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car, or have them break in the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your vehicle, you will require a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips will likely be installed in cars that were built in the last 20 years. These chips are small microchips located in the key's handle that transmit a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer when you use it. The computer in the car examines the digital serial number of the chip prior to giving the car permission to begin. This helps prevent theft of cars, as thieves would need to know your unique serial number to be able to steal it.
The microchip in your car key transmits an unintentional radio signal to the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip, which transmits a code to the onboard computer of the car. The car will only begin if it recognizes this code. This prevents "hot wiring" or other methods to steal cars.
Locksmiths that offer these services can make keys for cars with chips. Some automotive retailers such as AutoZone sell them. These stores have a wide range of keys and will assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your vehicle. They can help you program your car's chip, which is required for the device to function.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. They have an cylinder for locking that is more difficult to pick, and are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or special software. This technology is more common in luxury vehicles, but it is now being used in many affordable models of cars too.
Another type of key for cars that is difficult to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. The keys contain a resistor that's black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to one of fifteen possible values to prevent it from starting a vehicle that's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to buy and require a specific key programming device that can only be found at a few locksmiths.
Keys to VATS
Before transponder keys and cars that had computer chips that control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses an ordinary key with a pellet of resistance embedded within it to verify that the correct key is being used to start the vehicle. The VATS pellet in black in the middle of a VATS Key isn't an electronic chip that is like those present on modern keys. It is simply carbon or a block that is sized to have an electrical resistance value.
GM used 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and connected them to the blade of the key so that when the key is turned on the ignition the coded signal is transmitted to the module. If the signal is in line with that of the transistor in a VATS pellet then the relay in starter circuit will be activated and the engine will begin to run. This does not make a car burglar-proof however it could delay the thief for a minimum of 15 to twenty minutes.
Unfortunately, after a significant amount of usage, the VATS module in your car can begin to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved each when the key is placed. Over time, the wires may start to break. When enough wires break then the signal to the module is lost and the module won't be able to start the car.
You can solve this issue at home by decoding your VATS code. It's not hard to determine the resistance value of a key by using a multimeter. All you have to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter on the prongs made of metal sticking out on both sides of the key. Then examine the display of your ohm meter to determine the resistance value of your key.
This can also be a good method to test the new key to determine whether it will work in your car. Remove the key from the ignition first before you test it. If not the key may have an incorrect VATS, and will not function in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs of today do more than just unlock or start cars. They can also be used as a security device and burglar deterrent, with a lot of them incorporating advanced features that owners might not even be aware of. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, make chirping sounds to help you locate your car in a parking lot, or even let you summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. This is a lot more than you'd expect from the traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace because of their extra functions. They also have to be programmed at the dealer.
In fact, some retailers will cost upwards of $100 to replace a single smart key fob. That's a huge sum to pay for something that is often time snagging around in purses and pockets, which is where it's easily damaged, dropped, or exposed to moisture and extreme temperatures. Certain automakers have devised methods to shield smart key fobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. They are typically employed in conjunction with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to access your vehicle's settings through false signals from a nearby transmitter.
One way to protect a smart key fob is to put it in a metal case or an RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from its case that is protected each time you need to use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.
Some newer policies like auto club memberships or extended warranties will pay for replacing the fob, or reimburse you if it's lost. You can also avoid paying new-car dealer fees by having your fob cloned by a locksmith or hardware store that offers key-fob-cloning.
For the majority of drivers who want to buy an extra key fob will depend on the importance of your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. It is always advisable to keep an extra key or fob on hand in the event that you misplace yours. And if you need to purchase a replacement, Batteries Plus has a vast selection of fobs for the majority of vehicles and trucks. In addition, our quick and convenient service costs about 50% less than what you'd buy from a dealership.
Traditional Keys
The traditional car key is one piece of metal with a series of grooves carved into it. These grooves are designed to fit certain locks. They can unlock your locks and start your vehicle, provided that you haven't replaced them by an electronic key or a remote key. The only drawback to using an old-fashioned car key is that you need to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional car key has been damaged or lost you'll need to visit an Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one made.
Depending on how much time has passed since the last time you got your keys cut there are a variety of alternatives to select from when it comes time to get another copy. Certain keys utilize mechanical cutting machines to create copies, whereas others use laser-cut keys that have been designed with enhanced security features in mind.
Some of these advanced features that are included in modern keys include encryption as well as other security mechanisms. The encryption makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Transponder chips are a different anti-theft feature. They are incorporated into the key and connect to your vehicle. This makes it only work only when you're within a specific distance.
If you choose to use a traditional standard key, a locksmith is able to create a new key using a standard key cutter machine which can be purchased at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or a transponder, and you will still be able to use your trunk locks, trunk locks, and doors.
You could also replace your traditional car keys with a laser-cut version that has an unique pattern. The first time these keys were introduced was in the 1990s, and are a popular choice for those who wish to add extra protection to their automobiles. Laser cut keys typically contain transponder chips that are specifically programmed to work with your specific vehicle. If these chips aren't present in your car, it won't respond to the signals emanating from the key, and will not start.