Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting the car key is more than just bending metal. It is a sophisticated procedure that ensures security, functionality and the longevity of keys.
It is not uncommon to lose your car keys or even have it break in the lock. You'll need a replacement car key to ensure that you can drive your vehicle at all times.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are likely be installed in cars that were built in the last 20 years. These chips are tiny microchips in the key's handle that send signals to the car's onboard computer when you are using it. The computer in the car checks the digital serial number of the chip before allowing the car to start. This stops thieves from hijacking your vehicle, as they would need to know the unique serial number.
The microchip in the key sends a low-level signal the receiver within the car. The radio signal activates the microchip, which transmits a code to the car's onboard computer. The car will be able to recognize the code and only allow it to start if it is the correct one. This will stop the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of theft of cars.
inquiry with chips can be made at locksmiths that offer these services. They are also available at a few automotive stores like AutoZone. These stores have a wide range of keys and will assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your vehicle. They can even assist you to programme the chip into 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 because they have a lock that is harder to pick. They are only duplicated with expensive laser key cutting machines or with specialized software. This type of technology is typically found in luxury vehicles, but it is now available in a variety of affordable automobiles as well.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system), key is another type of key that's difficult to duplicate. They contain a resistor that's black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed with one of 15 possible values to stop it from starting a car that's not designed to. These keys are costly and require the use of a key programming machine which is only available through certain locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys and cars that had computer chips built in to control the ignition, GM used a system called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a regular key that has a resistor pellet embedded in it to confirm that the correct key is used to start the car. The VATS pellet black located in the middle of a VATS key is not a chip like those found on modern smart keys, it is simply a carbon block that is sized appropriately to have an electrical resistance that is specific to.
GM employed 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets. They connected the key blades to them so that, when the key was turned in the ignition a coded signal is sent to the module. If the signal matches the one of the transistors in a VATS pellet then the relay in the starter circuit will turn on and the engine will begin to run. This does not make a car burglar-proof however, it can deter a thief for at least 15 to twenty minutes.
After a lot of usage the VATS module could start to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved each time a key is introduced. Over time, the wires may begin to break. Once enough wires break, the signal to the module gets not received and it will not start the car.
The good news is that you can solve this issue at home by decoding your VATS key. You'll require a multimeter and an indicator chart to determine the resistance value of your key, but it is not difficult at all. 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 good way to test a new key to see if it will work in your car. Be sure to remove the key from the ignition before you begin testing it, as the new key could have an incorrect VATS value and not work in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys
Key fobs today can do more than simply unlock or start the vehicle. Many of them have advanced features that most owners are unaware of. They can be used as a security gadget or as a deterrent to theft. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, make noises that help you locate your vehicle in a parking lot or let you summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your smartphone. This is more functionality than you can obtain from a traditional keychain remote. However, all that additional capabilities also means that smart key fobs may be pricier to replace than traditional keychain remotes. They also require programming by the dealer.
In fact, some retailers will charge up to $100 to replace a single smart key fob. That's a lot to pay for a device that spends a lot of its time snagging around in purses and pockets, where it can be easily dropped, damaged or exposed to moisture and extreme temperatures. Some automakers have developed methods to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. These are often used in combination with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to access your vehicle's settings by transmitting an untrue signal from a nearby transmitter.
To secure a smart card you can put it in a metal casing or put it in an RFID blocking case. This will stop the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from a protective case every time you need to use it undermines the convenience of the technology.
Fortunately, some of the newer car insurance policies, auto club memberships, and extended warranty insurance policies will cover the cost of a replacement or reimburse you for a lost fob. You can also avoid paying dealer fees by having your fob copied at a hardware or locksmith store that offers key-fob-cloning services.
For most drivers who are buying a new key fob depends on how important your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. In any case, you should always have an extra key or fob handy just in case you lose it. Batteries Plus offers a large range of replacement fobs that will fit in most vehicles and trucks. Additionally, our fast and efficient service is 50% less than what you would spend at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
The car key of old is made of a single piece of steel with a series of grooves cut into it. These grooves are made to fit specific locks. They can open your locks and begin your car, provided you don't replace them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only disadvantage of using the traditional car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your car key is damaged or lost, you will need to visit an Gainesville Locksmith to have a new one created.
Based on the amount of time that has passed since you last got your keys cut There are many options available for you to pick from when it comes to getting another copy. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines or lasers, while others are cut with enhanced security features.
Some of these modern features that come with the modern types of keys include encryption and other security mechanisms. Encryption makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or open locks. Other anti-theft features include transponder chips, which are incorporated into the key to connect with your vehicle and allow it to work only when it's within the distance of your vehicle.
If you opt to use a traditional key, your locksmith can make a new key with the standard cutter machine that is available at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than the key fob or transponder key, and you'll still be able to operate your locks, doors and trunk.
You can also replace your traditional keys to your car with a laser-cut version that has an unique pattern. These keys were introduced in the 1990s and are a popular option for those who want to secure their automobiles. Laser cut keys are typically equipped with transponder chip that is programmed to work only with your vehicle. If these chips are not present in your vehicle, they will not respond to the signals sent by the key.