Keys Replacement For Cars
If you own a basic mechanical key you should be able to find a replacement at any hardware store for relatively affordable. However, this key will have to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit from the car dealer to be paired with your vehicle. These keys are expensive however, many insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy car keys that are purely mechanical, like the ones you put into an ignition lock cylinder, and turn to start your car. If your car has one of these keys, replacing the key and fob is fairly inexpensive (if they get lost or stolen).
A locksmith can make the basic key for you at a lower cost than what you'd pay in the dealership. You could also have someone close to you who is proficient in programming transponder keys from the aftermarket (which are cheaper than keys from factory) cut you a spare key and then program them. It is crucial to have a spare key since modern cars will not start in the event that the key does have the right chip.
Transponder keys look a lot like mechanical keys, but they are actually equipped with an electronic chip in the base of their plastic form that communicates with your car's computer system. The car will accept the code in the chip, but will not start if you try to use another code.
If your spare key contains chips it must be programmed by a dealer. The dealership will require a special machine for both cutting and programming the key. These machines are only available through certain dealerships, and it's not likely that a locksmith will have the equipment needed to create a laser-cut key with a transponder.
Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, particularly when you require a spare. If you only have the key shank missing, and a working replacement fob, you can try to reprogramme your fob by yourself. However, it can be time-consuming and complicated. If you've lost the complete fob and the key however you should seek out a dealer as the best option.
Other types of car keys require more specific skills to replace. These include flip keys as well as smart keys. These are more complex and are usually replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs feature a spring-loaded key that folds into the enclosure and opens a door or uses proximity sensors to open and start your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the recent 10 years or so it's likely to have a transponder key system. These keys contain a microchip and a receiver that is programmed to send a signal to start your car.
Transponder keys are an excellent way to discourage theft because they require two components for the car to start - the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer system being in place, the car won't start and it will be impossible to connect hotwire.
These key chips are programmed with a serial number that is unique to the vehicle you own. When the key is inserted into the ignition the serial number is then sent to the immobilizer of the car and verified that it is in line the number, which allows the engine to start. This security feature can only be blocked by a specially designed device which can read the chip to match it with a different car.
If you need a transponder key replacement, you'll need to visit an locksmith with the necessary equipment to reprogram the key to your vehicle. Some car dealerships offer this service too, but they are generally more expensive than a private locksmith because of their expenses.
It isn't easy to find an original key that comes with chip. To program your car, the key has to be programmed on a specific machine. It requires specialized software as well as the appropriate key cutter to cut it correctly.
The majority of auto parts stores can clone some of the simpler keys for chips, but you'll need to be aware of the serial number of the original key in order to ensure that the correct information is encoded into the key. Many people make the error of visiting a 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 are also referred to as sidewinder key because of the distinctive winding cut on the shank of the key. They add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. Because it requires specialized equipment to duplicate these keys, they're an excellent deterrent against auto-theft.
Like transponder keys. They have built-in chips that prevent unauthorized key copies from opening your car. They also usually come with a unique code on the key, which must be programmed for your specific vehicle in order to unlock and start it. This additional level of security will guard your investment and prevent thieves from trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to resell 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 more robust key shaft, which is a good indication that it's not your regular car key. Generally, locksmiths use a machine called milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. This machine is similar to a drill, and it's designed to cut metal in very precise angles.
These are the most secure keys you can buy for your vehicle. They are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only by cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. They're not made 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 laser. This kind of key is extremely robust and can be able to withstand the rigors of wear and wear and is one of the best options to protect your car.
Depending on the key, it will fold in the fob or pop out by pressing a button. The keys are typically used in German cars, and provide an extra layer of security against car thieves. They also make it extremely difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock your vehicle since the cylinder is extremely tough and difficult to break into.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the conventional single piece of carved metal. key replacement car come with a small chip that has an encrypted code that is unique to each key. Whenever you unlock your car's doors, or open the trunk, the key sends a signal to the car's onboard computer. The computer then signals the right frequency and allows you to connect to your car and start it.
The chip of the smart key comes with a variety of security features that protect against theft. The key emits an extremely low-frequency signal, which can only be detected by your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will prompt another one that is a unique sequence that only your car can recognize. This will stop a criminal with a high-tech background from using an external generator to "fool" the system and make the key work for other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, some smart keys also have additional functions like storing specific driver preferences remote opening windows or the sunroof, and more. This can be accomplished by activating the key's proximity sensor, pressing a button on the key itself or, in certain instances, by twisting a tiny metal part inside the key.
The majority of these key fobs feature a button that can unlock the doors by themselves however some come with another method of opening them by a slot or placing the dead key in an area on the dashboard, where it houses an inductive coil which can transfer energy. Some even have an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade concealed in the key to activate this.
Replacing a smart lock typically requires a visit to the dealership, where they will either have the replacement on hand or make it available for you to purchase. The dealer will also need to program your new key so that it recognizes your vehicle. You can visit a locksmith to get your replacement key fob programed and replaced. A locksmith may cost more than a dealer, but they will do the job quicker and cheaper.