Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is more than just forming the metal. It is a complicated procedure that ensures security, efficiency and the longevity of keys.
It is not unusual to lose your car key or even break it in the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your car, you will need a new key cut.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the past 20 years, it's likely that it has a transponder chip. These microchips are in the handle of the key and transmit a signal to the onboard computers of your vehicle when you press the key. The computer in the car reads the digital serial number within the chip and allows the car to start if it's the right one. This stops theft of vehicles, as thieves would need to know your unique serial number in order to be able to steal it.
The microchip inside your car keys transmits an low-level radio signal to the car's receiver. The radio signal activates microchip, which then transmits an informational code to the car's onboard computer. The car will be able to recognize this code and will only allow it to start when it is the correct one. This will stop "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.
Car keys with chips can be made at locksmiths that offer these services. They can also be bought at a few automotive stores like AutoZone. They have a huge selection of keys, and can help you find the appropriate one for your car. They can help you program your car's chip which is needed to operate the device.
There are also laser cut keys that are more secure than conventional flat keys. These keys feature the lock cylinder, which is more difficult to pick, and are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting equipment or specialized software. This technology is most commonly found in high-end cars however, it is now available on a variety of affordable models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system), key is another type of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys feature a black resistor on the blade of the key that is programmed with one of fifteen potential values to prevent them from starting a car that it's not meant to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a special key programming machine that can only be found at some locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys and cars with computers built-in to control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses a key with an embedded resistor to ensure that the correct key was used to start the car. The VATS black pellet that is in the center of the VATS key isn't an electronic chip as found on modern smart keys, it is simply a block of carbon appropriately sized to have an electrical resistance that is specific to.
GM used 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and attached them to the blade of the key so that when the key is turned on in the ignition the coded signal is transmitted to the module. If the signal matches the signal of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in the starter circuit will turn on and the engine will begin to run. This isn't a way to make a car theft proof however it will delay the theft by at least 15 to 20 minutes.
After a long period of use, the VATS module can begin to wear out. click through the up coming webpage inside the ignition move each time a key is introduced. Over time, the wires may begin to break. If enough wires are damaged the signal goes out to the module and the car won't begin.
The good news is that you can fix this problem yourself at home by decoding your VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance of a key by using a multimeter. All you have to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter onto the prongs of metal that are visible on both sides of the key, and then look at the display of the ohmmeter to determine the resistance value of your key.
This method can also be a good method to test a new key to determine whether it works in your car. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. If not, the key may have an incorrect VATS and not function in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs today do more than just unlock or start the car. They often have advanced features that many owners are not aware of. They can be used as a security device or as a theft deterrent. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, emit noises that help you locate your vehicle in a parking lot, or even allow you to call your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. This is more than you could ever think of from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace because of their extra functionality. They also have to be programmed by a dealer.
Some dealers charge up to $100 for one smart fob. That's a huge sum to pay for a device that spends a lot of its time in purses and pockets, which is where it's easily dropped, damaged, or exposed to extreme humidity and temperatures. Certain automakers have devised methods to shield smart key fobs from common electronic attacks, such as relay attacks. They are typically used in combination with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to gain access to your vehicle's settings by transmitting a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.
To secure a smart card to protect it, you can place it in a casing made of metal or even an RFID blocking case. This will prevent the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from a protective case every time you want to use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.
Some of the newer policies like auto club memberships and extended warranties will pay for a replacement fob, or reimburse you if it is lost. You can also avoid paying dealer fees by having your fob cloned by a locksmith or hardware store that offers key-fob-cloning services.
The decision of whether to buy a new fob is dependent on the importance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. In any event it is advisable to keep a spare key or fob handy just in case you lose yours. If you have to purchase a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a vast selection of fobs for the majority of vehicles and trucks. Plus, our quick and easy service is about 50% less than the price you'd spend at a dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys for cars are a single length of metal with grooves cut into it to fit into a particular lock. These keys will unlock your locks and start the car, provided you haven't changed them out to a smart or remote key. The only disadvantage of using the traditional key is that it must be physically placed into the ignition in order to start the car. If your traditional car key is lost or broken it is necessary to visit an Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one made.
Depending on how long has passed since you last cut your keys, there are several different options available for you to choose from when it comes to having another copy made. Certain keys are cut using mechanical machines, while others are laser-cut with added security features.
Modern keys come with advanced features, such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or take locks. Transponder chips are an additional security feature that prevents theft. They are incorporated into the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This makes it only function only when you're within certain distance.
If you opt to use a conventional, standard key, a locksmith could create a new key using a standard key cutter machine which can be purchased at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or transponder, and you will still be able to use your trunk, locks and doors.
You could also replace your traditional keys to your car with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. These keys were first introduced in the 1990s and have become a popular choice for those who wish to protect their automobiles. Laser cut keys are typically equipped with transponder chips that are programmed to only work with your vehicle. If the chips aren't present in your car it won't receive the signals from the key, and will not start.