Keys Replacement For Cars
You can buy a replacement key for a mechanical one at any hardware store. The key must be programmed either by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit from the dealer for the keys to be paired with your car. They are costly however, many insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase mechanical keys for your car such as the ones you insert into the ignition lock cylinder to start your vehicle. If your car uses one of these, it's inexpensive to replace the key and fob (if lost or stolen).
car key replacement can create an original key for less than you would buy from a dealer. You could also have someone close to you who knows how to program transponder keys from the aftermarket (which are cheaper than keys made by the factory) cut keys and program them. It is essential to have a spare key since modern cars will not start in the event that the key does have the correct chip.
Transponder keys are similar to mechanical keys but contain an electronic chip inside the base. This chip is connected to the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will recognize the code on the chip, but it will not start if you try to use another code.
If your spare key has chips that is programmed, it will have to be programmed at a dealership. The dealership will need a special machine for both cutting and programming the key. These machines are only available at certain dealerships, and it's not likely that a locksmith has the equipment needed to create keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
It's expensive to replace keys using remotes, especially if you require a spare. You could try reprogramming your fob on your own if you're just missing the shank on the key and you have a functioning replacement fob, however it can be time-consuming and laborious. It's better to go to an expert if you've lost both the fob and the key.
Other types of keys for cars require more special skills to replace. They include flip keys and smart keys. These are more complicated and require replacement by the dealer. Some key fobs have keys that are spring-loaded and fold into the enclosure and opens a door or uses a proximity sensor to open and start your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are likely to be used in vehicles built in the last 10 years. These keys are equipped with a microchip within the key itself as well as the car's receiver which are both programmed to communicate with each other in order to start the car.
Transponder keys are a fantastic way to discourage theft because they require two parts for the car to start - the transmitter (transponder) inside the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer device present the car will not start and it is not possible to hotwire.
The key chips come with an unique serial number that is specific to your vehicle. When automotive car key replacement is inserted into your ignition, the serial number is then sent to the immobilizer of the car and checked to ensure that it is in line the number, which allows the engine to start. The only thing that can defeat this security feature is a device that is able to detect the chip and match it to another car.
If you need a transponder key replacement it is necessary to visit a locksmith that has the equipment needed to reprogram the keys to your vehicle. Some car dealerships offer this service too, but they are typically more expensive than an independent locksmith due to their expenses.
It isn't easy to get an entirely new key that has chip. The key needs to be cut using a particular machine to ensure that it has the proper tracks that can then be used to program the key to your car. This requires specialized software and the right key cutter to do it correctly.
Many auto parts stores are able to duplicate some of the more basic keys for chips, but you will need to know the serial number from the original key in order to ensure that the correct information is programmed into the key. Many people make the mistake of going to their dealer to have their chip key copied and end with a bill that is higher than what they have to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also known as a sidewinder keys due to the distinctive winding cut on the shank of the key. They add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. Because it takes specialized machinery to duplicate these keys, they're a great security measure against auto theft.
They also come with built-in chips that prevent unauthorized key copying from starting your vehicle. They also typically contain a unique code the key, which needs to be programmed for your specific car in order to allow it to be opened and started. This additional level of security is a great way to protect your investment and deter thieves who could be trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to sell it.
Keys cut with lasers differ slightly from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves cut on the key. They also have a thicker key shaft, which is a good indication that it's not your regular car key. Locksmiths typically use milling machines to cut these keys. It's akin to a drill, and is designed to remove metal in very precise angles.
They are the most secure keys you can buy for your vehicle. They are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be done by cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. They're not made with traditional keys. Instead, they are made from a small piece steel that is cut to a code at the factory before being cut using laser. This type of key is very robust and can endure many years of wear and tear which makes it one of the best options to protect your car.
Depending on the key, it can fold into the fob, or pop out at the touch of a button. These types of keys are typically used in German cars and offer an additional layer of protection against car thieves. The cylinder is also very resistant to breaking into, making it very difficult for a thief pick or pick-lock the vehicle.
Smart Keys
Unlike the traditional single piece of carved metal smart keys use RFID, also known as radio-frequency identification, to communicate with the car. They have a chip with an unique code that is encoded on every key. Whenever you unlock your car doors or pop the trunk key, it sends a signal to the vehicle's computer onboard. The computer will then prompt the correct frequency to allow you to start your vehicle.
The smart key's chip also comes with a variety of security features to guard against theft. First, the key emits a low-frequency signal which isn't received by any other receiver, not even your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will trigger another one that is an individual sequence that only your car can understand. This prevents a tech-savvy criminal from using an external pulse generator to "fool" the system and make the key work for other vehicles.
Some smart keys have specific features, like the ability to store preferences for drivers and opening windows remotely, or the sunroof remotely and many more. These features are accessible 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.
The majority of these key fobs come with an unlock button that opens the doors by themselves However, some key fobs have another method of opening them by a slot or placing the dead key near the dashboard, where it is able to hold an inductive coil that is able to transfer energy. Certain key fobs come with an electronic (fully emergency) key blade inside the key.
Replacing a smart lock requires a trip to the dealer, who will either purchase the replacement or stock it. They'll also need to program the new key to recognize your car. You can go to a locksmith shop to have your replacement key fob programed and replaced. A locksmith might charge more than the dealer, but they'll be able to finish the job quicker and less expensively.