Keys Replacement For Cars
You can buy an alternative key for a mechanical key in any hardware store. However, the key must be programmed by a locksmith or dealership.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit from the car dealer to be paired with your vehicle. These types of keys can be costly, but some car insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
There are still car keys that are only mechanical, like the ones you place in an ignition lock cylinder and turn to start your vehicle. If your car uses one of these, it's relatively affordable to replace the key and fob (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can make you a new basic key for less than you would buy from a dealer. You could also ask a friend or neighbor that is proficient in programming transponder keys from the aftermarket (which are less expensive than factory keys) cut keys for you and have them programmed. It is important to have a spare key since modern vehicles won't start in the event that the key does have the proper chip.
Transponder keys look a lot like mechanical keys, but they contain a hidden electronic chip embedded in the bottom of their plastic shape that communicates with your vehicle's computer system. Your car will recognize the code on the chip, but will not start if you try to use another code.
If your spare key has chips, it will need to be programmed at a dealership. You'll need a specific machine to cut the key and then program it. These machines are only available at certain dealerships, and it's not likely that a locksmith has the tools needed to make an engraved key using a laser transponder.
Keys with remotes are expensive to replace, particularly if you need a spare. If you only have the key shank missing, and a working replacement fob, you could try reprogramming your fob on your own. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging. It's better to go to an authorized dealer if you've lost both the key and the fob.
Other kinds of keys for cars require more specific skills to replace. They include flip keys and smart key. They are more complex and must be replaced by a dealer. Some key fobs are operated by proximity sensors or a door opener that is spring-loaded.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the last 10 years or so it's likely to have a transponder key system. The keys are equipped with a microchip and the receiver is programmed to send a signal to start your car.
Transponder keys are a great way of deterring theft, as they require two components to start the car: the transmitter in the key and the receiver attached to the immobilizer. Without both the key and the immobilizer system being present, the car will not start and is impossible to connect hotwire.
The key chips come with a unique serial number for your vehicle. car key barrel replacement of the key is then sent to the immobilizer inside the car and checked to match. If it does the engine starts, it will. The only thing that can defeat this security feature is a special device that is able to read the chip and match it to another car.
If you need a transponder key replaced, you'll need to visit an locksmith with the necessary equipment to reprogram the key to your car. Some car dealerships offer this service too, but they are typically more expensive than an independent locksmith because of their expenses.
Getting a new car key that has a chip in it can be a very complex procedure. The key must first be cut using a specific machine to get the correct tracks in place that can then be programmed to assign the key to your car. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to do it properly.
Some of the simpler chip keys can be copied at a variety of auto parts stores, but you must know the serial number of the original key to ensure the proper information is being transferred to the new key. Many people make the error of visiting a dealer to get a chip key copied, and end in paying more than they need to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, referred to as sidewinder keys due their distinctive winding cuts to the shank of the key they add a layer of security to your vehicle. Because it requires specialized equipment to duplicate these keys, they're an excellent security measure against auto theft.
Like transponder keys. They have built-in chips that prevent unauthorised copies of keys from opening your vehicle. They have a unique number that must be programmed into your car to unlock it and start it. This extra layer of security is a great way to protect your investment and deter thieves who may be trying to steal your car for parts or to sell it to.
In terms of design laser-cut keys are different from standard mechanical cut keys due to having fewer carved-out grooves on the key. The shaft of the key is thicker, which is another indication that this isn't an ordinary car key. Locksmiths typically make use of milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. This kind of tool looks much like a drill bit and is designed to cut metal at extremely precise and controlled angles.
They are the most secure keys you can buy for your vehicle. They are extremely difficult to duplicate and must by cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. They're not like traditional keys. They're constructed from a tiny piece of steel that's made into a code, and then cut with the laser in 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 to protect your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it can fold into the fob, or pop out at the touch of the button. Keys like these are commonly used in German cars, and provide an additional layer of protection against car thieves. They also make it very difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock your car because the cylinder is extremely rugged and difficult to break into.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the traditional single piece of carved metal. They come with a chip with a unique code, which is encoded on every key. The key transmits a message to the onboard computer in your vehicle each time you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer then prompts the appropriate frequency and allows you to connect to your car and start it.
The chip of the smart key has a number of security features that protect against 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 trigger an alternative one that's an individual sequence that only your car can 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 have special features such as storing particular driver preferences, remotely opening windows or the sunroof, among others. These features can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob, pressing a button or, in certain instances, by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Some key fobs can be opened by placing the dead key in a slot or by placing it next to an inductive coil on the dashboard. Some key fobs have an electronic (fully emergency) key blade inside the key.
Replacing a key with a smart chip typically requires a visit the dealership, who will either have the replacement on hand or order it for you. The dealer will also need to program your new key so that it recognizes your vehicle. You can visit a locksmith to get your new key fob programmed and replaced. Locksmiths may charge more than a dealer, but they'll likely be able to complete the job faster and less expensively.