Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is a lot more than just forming the metal. It is a complex process that guarantees safety, functionality and long-term use of the keys.
It is not unusual to lose keys to your car or even have them break into the lock. You'll need a replacement car key to ensure you can drive your car at all times.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are likely to be added to cars that were that were built in the last 20 years. These microchips are located in the handle of the key and transmit a signal the onboard computers in your vehicle when you turn 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 correct one. This prevents car thieves from hijacking your vehicle, as they would need to know the unique serial number.
The microchip in your car key transmits a low-level radio signal to the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip, which then transmits a code to the car's onboard computer. The car will only start if it recognizes this code. This will stop "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.
Locksmiths who offer these services can design keys for cars that contain chips. Some car dealers, like AutoZone offer keys with chips. These stores have a large selection of keys, and can assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your vehicle. They can even assist you to programme the chip into your vehicle, which is required to make it work.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys are more secure than traditional flat keys because they have locks that are harder to pick. They can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting machines, or with specialized software. This type of technology is typically found in luxury cars however, it is now available in a wide range of low-cost models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system), key is another type of key that's difficult to duplicate. The keys are black with a resistor on the key blade that is programmed with one of fifteen potential values to prevent them from starting a vehicle that it's not designed to. They are expensive and require a key programming machine, which is only available through certain locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the advent of transponder keys and cars with built-in computer chips to control the ignition of the car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a regular key with a pellet of resistance embedded within it to verify that the correct key is used to start the car. The black VATS Pellet in the middle of a VATS Key is not a smart chip as present on modern keys. It is simply a block or carbon that is sized to have an electrical resistance value.
GM used 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets. They connected them to key blades in a way that when the key is turned on, the key blades transmit a coded message to module. If the signal is in line with that of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in the starter circuit will activate and the engine will begin to run. This isn't a way to make a car secure from theft however it will delay the theft by at least 15 to 20 minutes.
After a long period of use, the VATS module can start to wear out. Every time a key is inserted into the ignition it reroutes two small wires within the ignition, and, over time, the wires could start to break. If enough wires are damaged the signal is lost to the module and the car won't begin.
You can solve this issue at home by decoding your VATS code. It's not difficult to determine the resistance value of a key by using the multimeter. All you need to do is put one of the leads of your ohm gauge on the prongs made of metal visible on both sides of the key, and then examine the display of your ohm meter to find out the resistance of your key.
This is a great way to test a brand new key and see if it works in your vehicle. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. In the event that it is not removed the key may have an incorrect VATS and not work in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs today are more than just a way to unlock or start a car. They are also a security device and a burglar deterrent, with a lot of them incorporating advanced features that the owners might not even know about. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, emit sounding sounds to help locate your vehicle in a parking lot or allow you to summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. This is more than you'd think of from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their extra functions. They also require to be programmed by the dealer.
Some sellers charge as much as $100 for a single smart fob. That's a lot to pay for something that spends much of its time in pockets and purses, where it is easily damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme moisture and temperatures. Fortunately there are automakers who have developed methods to shield smart key fobs from common kinds of electronic attacks, such as relay attacks. These are typically combined with a remote start hack which allows thieves to access your vehicle's settings via the transmission of a fake signal another transmitter near.
One method of protecting the smart key fob is to put it in a metal case or use an RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from a protective case each time you need to use it undermines the convenience of the technology.
Certain policies that are more recent, such as auto club memberships or extended warranties can cover the cost of replacing the fob or reimburse you if it gets lost. You can also save money on dealer charges and have your fob cut at the hardware store or locksmith which offers key-fob cloning.
The decision of whether to purchase a new fob is largely dependent on the significance of your car's keyless start and entry functions. In any case you should have a spare key or fob handy just in case you lose it. Batteries Plus offers a large range of replacement fobs that will fit in most vehicles and trucks. In addition, our quick and convenient service costs about 50% less than what you would buy from the dealership.
Traditional Keys
The car key of old is made of a single piece of steel with a series of grooves carved into it. These grooves are made to fit specific locks. They can unlock your locks and also start the car, provided you don't swap them out for a smart key or remote key. The only drawback to using the traditional key is that it must be physically inserted into the ignition to start the vehicle. If your car key has been damaged or lost you'll need to visit the Gainesville locksmith to get a new one created.
Depending on how much time has passed since you last had your keys cut There are many options available for you to select from when it comes to getting another copy made. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines or lasers, while others are cut with security features that are enhanced.
Modern keys have advanced features like encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Transponder chips are an additional security feature that prevents theft. They are embedded in the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This makes it only effective only when you're within a specific distance.
If car key cutting near me G28 Car Keys opt to use a conventional, standard key, a locksmith can create a new key with a standard key cutting machine that can be found at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or transponder, and you are still able to operate your locks, trunk and doors.
You could also replace your traditional car keys with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. These keys were first introduced in the 1990s and are an increasingly popular choice for those looking to secure their automobiles. Laser cut keys are typically equipped with transponder chips that are programmed to work only with your vehicle. If these chips are not present in your vehicle, it won't respond to the signals generated by the key.