Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a standard mechanical key it is likely to find a replacement at any hardware store for relatively affordable. However, this key must be programmed by a locksmith or dealership.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit to the dealer for the keys to be paired with your car. These keys are expensive however, many insurance companies will pay for the cost.
Mechanical Keys
There are still car keys that are purely mechanical, such as the ones you place in an ignition lock cylinder and then turn to start your vehicle. If your car has one of these, replacing the fob and key is fairly inexpensive (if they're lost or stolen).
A locksmith can cut an entry level key for you at a lower cost than what you would buy from the dealership. You can also have a friend or neighbor that knows how to program transponder keys that are made for the aftermarket (which are less expensive than factory keys) cut you a spare key and program them. It is essential to have a spare key since modern cars won't start if the key does not have the correct chip.
Transponder keys resemble mechanical keys, but have an electronic chip hidden in the base. car key replacements with the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will recognize the code that is on the chip, but will not start if you try to use another code.
If your spare key has chips, you'll have to bring it to a dealer to have it programmed. They will need to use an equipment that can cut the key and program it. These machines are only available at specific dealerships, and it's not likely that a locksmith has the equipment required to create a laser-cut key with a transponder.
Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, especially if you need an extra. If you have just the key shank missing and a working replacement fob, you can try to reprogramme your fob on your own. However, it can be time-consuming and complicated. If you've lost the complete fob and key but you're not sure it's best to contact a dealer as the best option.
There are other kinds of keys for cars that require a more specific set of skills to replace, like flip keys and smart keys. They are more complex and need to be replaced by the dealer. Certain key fobs operate by proximity sensors or a spring-loaded door opener.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the last 10 years or so it's likely to have transponder keys. The keys have a microchip and the receiver is programmed to communicate with start your car.
Transponder keys are an excellent method of preventing theft, as they require two parts to start the car: the transmitter inside the key, and the receiver connected to the immobilizer. Without both the key and the immobilizer system in place, the car won't start and it will be impossible to connect hotwire.
Key chips have an unique serial number that is specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is transmitted to the immobilizer in the car and verified to be in line. If it does then the engine will begin. The only thing that can stop this security feature is a special device that is able to detect the chip and match it with another car.
You'll require an locksmith with the equipment needed to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships offer this service too, but they are typically more expensive than a independent locksmith because of their overhead.
The process of getting a new car keys that has a chip in it is a complicated process. The key must first be cut using a particular machine in order to have the proper tracks which can later be programmed to assign the key to your car. It requires specialized software, and the correct key cutter to cut it correctly.
Some of the simpler chip keys can be copied at most auto part stores, but you must be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure the correct information is transferred to the new key. Many people make a mistake by visiting their dealer to purchase the clone of a chip-key and end up paying high prices.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, referred to as sidewinder keys due their distinctive winding cuts on the key shank provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. Because it requires specialized equipment to duplicate these keys, they're a great protection against auto theft.
They also come with built-in chips to prevent unauthorized key copying from starting your car. They come with a unique code that must be programmed into your car in order to unlock it and start it. This extra layer of security is a fantastic method to safeguard your investment and deter thieves who may be trying to steal your vehicle for parts or sell it to.
Laser-cut keys differ from mechanically cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves cut on the key. The key shaft is also more substantial, which is another indication that this isn't a regular car key. Locksmiths usually employ a milling machine to cut these keys. This kind of machine appears similar to a drill bit and is designed to remove metal with extremely precise and controlled angles.
They are the most secure keys that you can purchase for your vehicle. They're hard to duplicate and can only be done be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. They're not made with traditional keys. Instead, they are made of a tiny piece of steel that's shaped according to form a code in the factory and then cut using laser. This kind of key is extremely robust and can endure the rigors of wear and tear, making it one of the best options to protect your car.
Depending on the key, it will fold into the fob or be released with the click of a button. Keys like these are commonly used in German cars, and provide an extra layer of security against car thieves. The cylinder is resistant to breaking into, making it extremely difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock the car.
Smart Keys Keys
Unlike the traditional single piece of carved metal smart keys use RFID, or radio-frequency identification, to communicate with the car. This means they have tiny chips that contain an encrypted code that is unique to each key. The key transmits a message to the onboard computer in your vehicle whenever you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer then prompts the correct frequency, allowing you to access your car and begin it.
The chip inside the smart key comes with a variety of security features to protect it from theft. The key emits a low-frequency signal that can only be detected by your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will display a different one that is an exclusive sequence that only your car can recognize. This prevents a tech-savvy criminal from using an external pulse generator to "fool" the system and make the key work for other vehicles.
In addition to locking and opening the car, some smart keys also have additional functions such as storing specific preferences for drivers remote opening windows or the sunroof, and more. This can be accomplished by activating the key's proximity sensor or pressing a button on the key itself or, in certain instances, twisting a small metal component inside the key.
Certain key fobs can be opened by holding the dead key in a slot, or by placing it near an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Some key fobs feature an electronic (fully emergency) key blade that is inside the key.
Replace a smart key requires a trip to the dealer, who can either order the replacement or stock it. They'll also have to program the new key to recognize your vehicle. But, you can go to a locksmith shop to have your new key fob programmed and replaced. Locksmiths will cost more than dealers, but he or she can complete the task faster and for less.