Keys Replacement For Cars
If you own a basic mechanical key you should be able to find a replacement at any hardware store for relatively inexpensive. However, the key must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to connect them to your car. These keys are expensive however many car insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase mechanical keys for your car, the ones that you insert into an ignition lock cylinder to start your car. If your car has one of these keys, replacing the key and fob is fairly inexpensive (if they get lost or stolen).
A locksmith can make you a new basic key at a lower cost than what you purchase from a dealership. You can also ask a neighbor or friend who knows how to program transponder keys (which are cheaper than the factory keys) to make you a spare key and then program it. It is essential to have a spare key since modern cars won't start in the event that the key does have the right chip.
Transponder keys look like mechanical keys, however they have a hidden electronic chip embedded in the bottom of their plastic form that communicates with your car's computer system. Your car will be able to recognize the code contained in the chip and accept it, however it will refuse to start if another code is utilized.
If the spare key you have has a chip it must be programmed at a dealership. They'll require a special machine to both cut the key and program it. These machines are only available at certain dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith will have the equipment required to create keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
Keys with remotes can be costly to replace, especially when you require a spare. If you have just the key shank missing, and a functioning replacement fob you can attempt to reprogramme your fob by yourself. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging. If you've lost the entire fob and the key however you should seek out a dealer as the best option.
There are other kinds of keys for cars that require a specialized set of skills to replace, such as flip keys and smart keys. key replacement car are more complicated and typically need to be replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs have an electronic key that folds into the enclosure and opens doors, or they're operated with the use of a proximity sensor to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the recent 10 years or so you're likely to use a transponder key system. These keys contain a microchip and a receiver that is programmed to communicate to start your vehicle.
Transponder keys are an effective method of preventing theft since they require two parts to start the car: the transmitter in the key, and the receiver connected to the immobilizer. The car won't start without both the key and the immobilizer system.
Key chips have an unique serial number that is specific to your vehicle. When the key is inserted into your ignition, the serial number is transmitted to the cars immobilizer and checked to ensure that it is in line and allows the engine to start. The only thing that can defeat this security feature is a device that can read the chip and match it to another car.
When you have a transponder key replacement you'll need to go to an locksmith with the equipment needed to reprogram the key into your vehicle. Some car dealerships offer this service as well but they are typically more expensive than an independent locksmith due to their overhead.
Getting a new car key that has a chip in it can be a very complex process. To program your car, the key needs to be programmed using a specific machine. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to cut it properly.
Most auto parts stores can clone some of the simpler keys for chips, but you'll need to be aware of the serial number of the original key in order to ensure that the correct information is encoded into the key. Many people make the error of going to their dealer to have their chip key copied, and end up paying more than they have to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred as a sidewinder keys due to the distinctive winding cut on the shank of the key. They provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. They are a fantastic deterrent to auto theft because they require specialized machinery to duplicate.
They also have built-in chips that prevent unauthorised key copying from launching your vehicle. They have a unique number that must be programmed to your car to unlock it and start it. This additional level of security will safeguard your investment, and deter thieves from attempting to steal your car for parts or to sell it.
In terms of their design Laser-cut keys are different from mechanical cut keys, as they have fewer carved-out grooves on the key. The shaft of the key is more substantial, which is another sign that this is not an ordinary car key. Generally, locksmiths 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.
These are the most secure keys you can purchase for your vehicle. They are extremely difficult to duplicate and must be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. They're not like traditional keys. They're made using a small piece of steel that is shaped into a code and then cut using a laser at the factory. This kind of key can be able to withstand a great deal of wear and tear and is one of the best options for protecting your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it could fold into the fob, or pop out by pressing a button. Keys like this are typically used in German cars and offer an additional layer of security against car thieves. The cylinder is resistant to breaking into, making it very difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock a vehicle.
Smart Keys Keys
In contrast to the traditional single piece of carved metal smart keys utilize RFID, or radio-frequency identification, to communicate with the car. This means they come with a small chip that has an encrypted code that is unique to each key. The key sends a signal to the onboard computer in your vehicle each time you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer then prompts the correct frequency and allows you to connect to your car and begin it.
The smart key's chip comes with a variety of security features to guard against theft. First the key emits a low-frequency signal that can't be picked up by any receiver other than your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will transmit a different one which is an exclusive code that only your car is able to understand. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using a pulse generator in order to "fool the system" and perform the work on other vehicles.
Some smart keys offer specific features, like storing driver preferences, opening windows remotely or the sunroof via remote and many other. This can be accomplished by activating the key's proximity sensor, pressing a button on the key or, in some instances, twisting a small metal component inside the key.
Some key fobs can be opened by placing the dead key in a slot or by placing it in proximity to an inductive coil on the dashboard. Some even have an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade concealed in the key to activate this.
Replacing a key with a smart chip typically requires a visit the dealer, who will either have the replacement in stock or order it for you. They'll also need to program the new key to recognize the car you are driving. You can go to a locksmith shop to have your replacement key fob programmed and replaced. Locksmiths may charge more than the dealer, but they'll likely be able to complete the job quicker and for less.