Keys Replacement For Cars
If you own a basic mechanical key it is likely to get a replacement at any hardware store for cheap. However, this key must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a trip to the dealer to connect them to your vehicle. These kinds of keys are typically expensive, but some car insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase mechanical keys for cars such as the ones you insert into an ignition lock cylinder to start your car. If your car is equipped with one of these, it's relatively cheap to replace the key and fob (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can cut the basic key for you at a less cost than what you'd buy from a dealership. You can also ask a neighbor or friend who knows how to program transponder keys aftermarket (which are cheaper than the factory keys) to make you a spare key and program it. It is essential to have a spare since modern cars won't be able to start when a key is not programmed with the correct chip is used.
Transponder keys are similar to mechanical keys, but have an electronic chip hidden within the base. This chip is connected to the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will recognize the code on the chip, but will not start if you use another code.
If your spare key has chips, it will need to be programmed by a dealer. The dealership will need a special machine for both cutting and programming the key. The machines are available at certain dealerships and it is unlikely that a locksmith have the equipment necessary to create a key with transponder.
Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, especially if you need an extra. You can try reprogramming your fob by yourself if you're missing the shank of the key and have a functioning replacement fob, however it can be difficult and time-consuming. If you've lost the entire fob and the key however it's best to contact a dealer as your best bet.
Other types of keys for cars require more specific skills to replace. They include flip keys and smart keys. These are more complicated and must be replaced by the dealer. Some key fobs are operated by proximity sensors or a door opener with a spring loaded mechanism.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are likely to be found in cars that were built in the past 10 years. The keys have an embedded microchip and an electronic receiver that is programmed to send a signal to start your car.
Transponder keys are a great way to discourage theft because they require two parts for the car to be able to start that is the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer system present, the car will not start and is impossible to connect hotwire.
These key chips have an unique serial number that is specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is then sent to the immobilizer in the car, and then checked to match. If it does the engine starts, it will. This security feature is only defeated by a special device that reads the chip and match it to another vehicle.
If you need a transponder-related key replaced, you'll need to visit an locksmith with the tools needed to reprogram the keys to your car. Some car dealerships offer this service too, but they are generally more expensive than a private locksmith due to their costs.
Getting a new car key that has a chip in it can be a very complicated procedure. The key must first be cut using a particular machine to ensure that it has the proper tracks that can be used to program the key to your car. It requires specialized software as well as the appropriate key cutter to do the job properly.
Most auto parts stores can copy some of the less complicated chips keys, but you'll need to know the serial number from the original key to ensure that the correct data is incorporated into the key. Many people make a mistake by going to their dealer for the clone of a chip-key and end up paying high prices.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred to as a sidewinder keys due to the distinctive winding cut that is made on the shank of the key. They provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. Because it requires specialized equipment to duplicate these keys, they're an excellent protection against auto theft.
Like transponder keys. They have built-in chips that block duplicate keys from getting into your vehicle. They also usually have a unique code on the key, which needs to be programmed to your specific car in order to allow it to be opened and started. This extra layer of security will guard your investment and prevent thieves from trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to resell it.
Laser-cut keys differ slightly from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves carved out on the key. They also have a more robust key shaft which is an excellent indication that it's not your regular car key. Locksmiths typically use a milling machine to cut these keys. This machine is similar to a drill bit and it's designed to remove metal in very precise angles.
These are the most secure keys you can buy for your vehicle. They are difficult to duplicate and can only be done be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. They're not created using traditional keys. Instead, they are made of a tiny piece of steel that is cut to form a code in the factory, and then cut with laser. This type of key can endure a lot of wear and tear, and is one of the best options for protecting your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it can fold in the fob or be released by pressing the button. Keys like these are commonly used in German automobiles, and offer an extra layer of protection against car thieves. The cylinder is robust and difficult to break into, which makes it difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock a vehicle.
Smart Keys
Contrary to the conventional single piece of metal, smart keys use RFID, also known as radio-frequency identification for short, to communicate with the car. They come with a chip with an unique code that is encoded on each key. Whenever you unlock your car's doors or open the trunk key, it sends a signal to your vehicle's computer onboard. The computer then prompts the appropriate frequency which allows you to open your car and begin it.
The chip of the smart key includes a variety of security features that guard against theft. The key emits an extremely low-frequency signal that can only be detected by your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will trigger a different one that is an exclusive sequence that only your vehicle will recognize. This will stop a criminal with a high-tech background from using an external pulse generator to "fool" the system and perform the work for other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, some smart keys come with additional features like storing specific driver preferences remote opening windows or the sunroof, and many more. These are accomplished by activating the key's proximity sensor or pressing a button on the key itself or, in some instances, twisting a small metal part inside the key.
Some key fobs can be opened by holding the dead key in a slot, or by placing it next to an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Some key fobs feature an electronic (fully emergency) key blade in the key.
Replacing a smart key usually requires a visit to the dealer, who will either have the replacement in stock or purchase it for you. They'll also need to program the new key to recognize your car. You can also visit a locksmith for your replacement key fob to be programmed and replaced. key replacement car will cost more than a dealer but he or she can do the job faster and cheaper.