Keys Replacement For Cars
If you own a basic mechanical key it is likely to purchase a replacement from any hardware store for relatively inexpensive. However, this key must be programmed by a locksmith or dealership.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit from the dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These kinds of keys can be costly but some insurance companies cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase mechanical keys for your car such as the ones you insert into the ignition lock for your vehicle to start. If your car is equipped with one of these keys, replacing the key and fob is relatively inexpensive (if they're lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create an entry level key for you at a less price than you would buy from the dealership. You could also ask a neighbor or friend who knows how to program transponder keys (which are cheaper than the keys that are factory-made) to cut you a spare and have it programmed. A spare key is crucial since modern cars won't be able to start when a key is not programmed with the correct chip is used.
Transponder keys resemble mechanical keys, but they contain an electronic chip within the base. This chip is connected to the computer system of your vehicle. Your car will recognize the code that is on the chip, but will not start if you choose another code.
If your spare key has chips it must be programmed at a dealership. They'll require an equipment that can cut the key and then program it. These machines are only available at certain dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith has the tools needed to make keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
Keys with remotes are expensive to replace, particularly when you require a spare. Try reprogramming the fob yourself if you're only missing the shank of the key and have a working replacement fob, however it can be time-consuming and difficult. If you've lost your entire key and fob but you're not sure, a dealer is the best option.
auto key replacements of keys for cars require more specialized skills to replace. These include flip keys and smart keys. They're more complicated and require replacement by a dealer. Some key fobs feature a spring-loaded key that folds into the enclosure and opens a door or is operated by proximity sensors 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 transponder keys. The keys contain a microchip in the key and an internal receiver in your car that are both programmed to communicate with each other in order to start the car.
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 attached to the immobilizer. The car won't start without the key and the immobilizer system.
The key chips come with an individual serial number specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is then sent to the immobilizer of the car, and then checked to be in line. If it does the engine starts, it will. This security feature can only be blocked by a specially designed device that can read the chip to match it to another vehicle.
You'll need to find an locksmith with the tools to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service, but their overheads make them more expensive than an independent locksmith.
It can be difficult to find an original key that comes with chip. To program your car, the key must be programmed on a special machine. It requires specialized software as well as the right key cutter to do it properly.
Most auto parts stores can copy some of the less complicated chips keys, however you will need to know the serial number from the original key to ensure the correct information is programmed into the key. Many people make a mistake visiting their dealer to purchase the clone of a chip-key and end up paying overpriced costs.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, referred to as sidewinder keys because of their distinctive winding cuts on the key shank they add a layer of security to your vehicle. Because it takes specialized machinery to duplicate these keys, they're a great security measure against auto theft.
Like transponder keys, they feature built-in chips that prevent unauthorized key copies from getting into your car. They also have a unique code on the key that must be programmed for your particular vehicle in order to allow it to be opened and started. This additional level of security will protect your investment, and deter thieves from trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to sell it.
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 larger, which is a indication that this isn't an ordinary car key. Locksmiths usually use milling machines to cut these keys. This machine is similar to a drill, and it's designed to cut metal in very precise angles.
These are some of the most secure keys you can buy for your car, as they are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by the dealer or a licensed locksmith. They're not created using traditional keys. Instead, they're made of a tiny piece of steel that is cut to a code at the factory, and then cut using the laser. This kind of key can endure a lot of wear and tear and is among the best options for protecting your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it can either fold into the fob or be released at the touch of the button. Keys like these are commonly used in German cars and offer an additional layer of protection against car thieves. They also make it extremely difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock your vehicle because the cylinder is extremely tough and difficult to break into.
Smart Keys
Unlike the traditional single piece of metal, smart keys make use of radio-frequency identification, or RFID to connect with the car. They have a chip with an unique code that is encoded on 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 will then signal the appropriate frequency to allow you to start your car.
The chip of the smart key comes with a variety of security features that protect against theft. The key emits a low-frequency signal, which can only be detected by your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will send a different one which is a unique code that only your car can understand. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using an electronic pulse generator to "fool the system" and do the key work on other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, some smart keys come with additional features such as storing particular driver preferences remote opening windows or the sunroof, among others. These are accomplished by activating the key's proximity sensor, pressing a button on the key itself or, in some instances, by twisting a tiny metal component inside the key.
Certain 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 a mechanical (fully emergency) key blade in the key.
Replacing a smart lock typically requires a visit the dealership, who will either have the replacement in stock or order it for you. The dealer will also have to program the new key so that it recognizes your car. But, you can go to a locksmith shop to have your replacement key fob programed and replaced. A locksmith might charge more than a dealer, but they'll be able to do the job faster and less expensively.