Keys Replacement For Cars
You can buy a replacement key for a mechanical key in any hardware store. The key must be programmed by a locksmith or a dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to a dealer to pair them with your vehicle. They are costly, but many car insurance companies will pay for the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical keys for cars such as the ones you insert into an ignition lock cylinder to start your vehicle. If your car is equipped with one of these keys, replacing the key and fob is relatively inexpensive (if they're lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create a new basic key for less than you would purchase from a dealership. You can also ask a neighbour or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys for aftermarket use (which are cheaper than the keys that are factory-made) to cut you a spare and have it programmed. It is crucial to have a spare key as modern cars won't start if the key does not have the right chip.
Transponder keys look a lot like mechanical keys, but they contain a hidden electronic chip in the base of their plastic form that communicates with the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will be able to recognize the code contained in the chip and accept it, however it will refuse to start if any other code is utilized.
If the spare key you have has chip, you'll need to bring it to a dealer to get it programmed. They will need to use an equipment that can cut the key and then program it. vehicle key replacement are only available at specific dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith will have the tools needed to make keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, especially if you need a spare. Try reprogramming the fob on your own if you're just missing the key shank and have a functional replacement fob, however it can be time-consuming and difficult. If you've lost the entire key and fob however, a dealer is your best bet.
Other kinds of keys for cars require more special skills to replace. These include flip keys and smart keys. These are more complicated 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
Transponder keys are most likely to be used in vehicles constructed in the last 10 years. These keys have a microchip in the key itself and an internal receiver in your car which are both programmed to communicate with each other in order to start the car.
Transponder keys are an excellent method of preventing theft since they require two elements to start the car - the transmitter contained in the key and the receiver that is connected to the immobilizer. The car won't start without the key and immobilizer system.
The key chips come with an unique serial number that is specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is transmitted to the immobilizer inside the car and checked to be in line. If it does the engine starts, it will. The only thing that could be a hindrance to this security feature is a special device that can read the chip and match it to another vehicle.
You'll need to find a locksmith that has the equipment to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service too, but they tend to be more expensive than a independent locksmith because of their overhead.
Getting a new car key with a chip inside it is a complex process. To program your car, the key has to be programmed on a specific machine. It requires specialized software, as well as the right key cutter to do it correctly.
The majority of auto parts stores can duplicate some of the more basic chips keys, however you will need to be aware of the serial number of 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 get a chip key copied and end up paying more than they have to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, also known as sidewinder keys due their distinctive winding cuts to the shank of the key they add a layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great security measure against theft of your vehicle because they require specialized machinery to duplicate.
Like transponder keys, they feature built-in chips that prevent unauthorized key copies from starting your vehicle. They come with a unique code that needs to be programmed into your vehicle to unlock it and begin it. This additional level of security is a great option to protect your investment and deter thieves who could be trying to steal your vehicle to make parts or sell it on.
In terms of design Laser-cut keys are different from conventional mechanical cut keys in that they have smaller grooves that have been carved out of the key. They also have a more robust key shaft that is an indication that it's not your regular car key. Locksmiths usually use milling machines to cut these keys. This type of machine looks similar to a drill bit and is designed to remove metal with extremely precise and controlled angles.
These are the most secure keys you can purchase for your vehicle. They're hard to duplicate and must be cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. In contrast to traditional keys, they're made from a small piece of steel which is cut into a shape and then cut with a laser in the factory. This type of key is very durable and can stand up to the rigors of wear and wear and is one of the best options to protect your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it could either fold into the fob or pop out with the click of the button. The keys are typically used in German automobiles, and offer an extra layer of security against car thieves. The cylinder is resistant to breaking into, making it extremely difficult for a thief pick or pick-lock a vehicle.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle via radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the conventional single piece of carved metal. This means they come with tiny chips that contain an encrypted code that is unique to each key. Whenever you unlock your car doors or pop the trunk the key sends a signal to your vehicle's computer onboard. The computer then triggers the right frequency, allowing you to access your car and start it.
The chip of the smart key has several security features that protect it from theft. The key emits a low-frequency signal that can only be detected by your car. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will prompt a different one that is a unique sequence that only your vehicle will understand. This stops a cyber-savvy criminal from using an external generator to "fool" the system and make the key work for other vehicles.
In addition to locking and opening the car, some smart keys have special features such as storing specific preferences for drivers, remotely opening windows or the sunroof, and more. These features are accessible by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob, pressing a button or, in some cases, by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Most key fobs have an unlock button that opens the doors for themselves, but some have an additional method to open them by a slot or placing the dead key near a spot on the dashboard, where it is able to hold an inductive coil that is able to transfer energy. Some even come with an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade concealed in the key to activate this.
Replacing a smart lock typically requires a visit the dealer, who will either have the replacement on hand or purchase it for you. The dealer will also need to program your new key to identify your vehicle. You can visit a locksmith to get your new key fob programmed and replaced. A locksmith may charge more than the dealer, but they'll likely be able to finish the job more quickly and for less.