Keys Replacement For Cars
If you own a basic mechanical key you should be able to purchase a replacement from any hardware store for relatively affordable. This key will need to be programmed either by a dealership or locksmith.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to connect them to your vehicle. These kinds of keys can be costly but some insurance companies cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical keys for your car, the ones that you put into the ignition lock cylinder to start your vehicle. If your car is equipped with one of these keys, it's inexpensive to replace the fob and key (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can cut a basic key for you at a lower cost than what you'd pay in a dealership. You can also ask a neighbour or friend who knows how to program transponder keys for aftermarket use (which are less expensive than keys that are factory-made) to make you a spare key and program it. It is essential to have a spare key because modern cars won't start in the event that the key does have the proper chip.
Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, however they have a hidden electronic chip inside the base of their plastic design that communicates with the computer system in your vehicle. Your vehicle will recognize the code in the chip and accept it, however it will not start if another code is used.
If the spare key you have has chips, you'll have to bring it to a dealership to have it programmed. The dealership will require an equipment that is specifically designed for cutting and programming the key. These machines are only available at certain dealerships. It is unlikely that a locksmith would have the equipment needed to create a key with transponder.
It's expensive to replace keys using remotes, especially if you require a spare. If you have only the key shank missing and an operational replacement fob, you can try to reprogramme your fob by yourself. However, it can be time-consuming and complicated. If you've lost your entire fob and key but you're not sure you should seek out a dealer as your best bet.
Other kinds of car keys require more specialized skills to replace. This includes flip keys and smart key. They are more complicated and are usually replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs have a spring-loaded key that folds into the enclosure and opens a door or is operated by a proximity sensor to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the last 10 years or so it's likely to use a transponder key system. These keys are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key and the car's receiver which are both programmed to communicate with each other in order to start the car.
Transponder keys are a great 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.
Key chips have a unique serial number for your vehicle. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the serial number is sent to the immobilizer of the car and then verified to make sure it is compatible the number, which allows the engine to run. This security feature is only overcome by a specific device that can read the chip and match it with a different car.
When you get a transponder-related key replaced it is necessary to visit a locksmith that has the tools needed to reprogram the key to your car. Some car dealerships offer this service too, but they are generally more expensive than an independent locksmith due to their expenses.
The process of getting a new car keys that has a chip in it is a complex procedure. The key must first be cut using a specific machine to get the proper tracks which can later be used to program the key to your car. This requires special software and the correct key cutter to get it done properly.
cost of replacement car key are able to clone some of the simpler chips keys, however you'll need to be aware of the serial number of the original key in order to ensure that the correct information is incorporated into the key. Many people make the error of visiting their dealer to get a chip key copied, and end with a bill that is higher than what they need to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, also 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 requires specialized equipment to duplicate these keys, they're an excellent deterrent against auto-theft.
They also have built-in chips that prevent the copying of keys by unauthorized people from starting your vehicle. They have a unique number that needs to be programmed into your car to unlock it and begin it. This additional level of security is a fantastic method to safeguard your investment and deter thieves who might be trying to steal your vehicle to make parts or sell it on.
Keys cut with lasers differ slightly from mechanically cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves carved out on the key. The key shaft is also thicker, which is another sign that this is not an ordinary car key. Locksmiths generally employ a machine known as a milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. This machine is similar to a drill bit and it's designed to cut metal at precise 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're made of a tiny piece of steel that's shaped according into a specific code at the factory before being cut with a laser. This kind of key can be able to withstand a great deal of wear and tear, and is one of the best options for protecting your vehicle.
The key can be folded in the fob, or pop out by pressing a button. The keys are typically used in German cars, and provide an extra layer of protection against car thieves. They also make it extremely difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock your car because the cylinder is extremely durable and is difficult to break.
Smart Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the conventional single piece of carved metal. They come with a chip with an individual code, which is encoded on each key. Whenever you unlock your car's doors, or open the trunk, the key sends a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer. The computer then will prompt the right frequency that allows you to start your car.
The chip inside the smart key is equipped with several security features to protect it from theft. First the key emits a very low-frequency signal which isn't received by any other receiver, not even your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal it will send an additional signal that is an exclusive code that only your vehicle can comprehend. This prevents a tech savvy criminal from using an electronic pulse generator to "fool the system" and do the key work on other vehicles.
Certain smart keys come with special features, like the ability to store preferences for drivers remote opening windows, opening the sunroof from afar and many more. These features are accessible by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button or, in some instances it is as simple as twisting a tiny piece of metal inside the key.
Certain key fobs are 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 have a mechanical (fully emergency) key blade inside the key.
Replace a smart key requires a trip to the dealer, where they can order the replacement or have it in stock. They'll also need to program the new key to recognize the car you are driving. You can visit a locksmith to get your replacement key fob programmed and replaced. A locksmith will charge more than a dealer but he or she can do the job quicker and at a lower cost.