Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting a car key is more than just bending a piece metal. It is a complex process that guarantees security, efficiency and long-term use of the keys.
It is not unusual to lose your car key or even break it in the lock. You will need an alternative car key to ensure you can drive your vehicle at all times.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are likely be added to cars that were built within the past 20 years. These chips are tiny microchips located in the handle of your key that transmit a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer whenever you use it. The onboard computer reads the digital serial number within the chip and allows the car to start if it is the correct one. This stops thieves from hijacking your vehicle since they'd need to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip inside the key transmits a low-level signal the car's receiver. The radio signal activates microchip, and it then sends an encoded code to the car's onboard computer. The car will only begin when it recognizes the code. This stops the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of stealing cars.
Car keys with chips can be made at locksmiths that offer these services. Some automotive retailers such as AutoZone sell keys with chips. They have a huge range of keys and can help you find the right one for your vehicle. They can help you program the chip in your vehicle that is required to operate the device.
You can also get laser cut keys, which are more secure than conventional flat keys. These keys are more secure than traditional flat keys because they have locks that are more difficult 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 high-end cars however, it is now available on many affordable models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is another kind of key that is difficult to duplicate. The keys have a resistor that is black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of a variety of values to stop it from starting a vehicle it's not intended to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a special key programming device that can only be found at a few locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys and cars that had computer chips that control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a key that has an embedded resistor to confirm that the right key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet black in the center of the VATS key isn't a chip like those used in modern smart keys, it's simply a block of carbon that is sized appropriately to have a specific electrical resistance value.
GM employed 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and attached the key's blade, so that when the key is turned in the ignition the coded signal is sent to the module. If it matches the resistance value of the transistor in the VATS pellet the relay in the starter circuit is activated and the engine starts to run. This doesn't make a car secure from theft, but it will delay the thief by at minimum 15 to 20 minutes.
Unfortunately, after a long period of use, the VATS module in your car could begin to wear out. The two small wires in the ignition are moved every time a key is inserted. As time passes the wires can start to break. When cost to get a key cut break then the signal to the module gets lost and the module won't be able to start the car.
You can resolve this issue at home yourself by decoding your VATS key. You'll require a multimeter and a chart to find out the resistance value of your key, but it is not difficult at all. All you have to do is place one of the leads of your ohm meter onto the prongs of metal that are hanging out on both sides of the key. Then examine the display of your ohm meter to find out the resistance value of your key.
This can also be a good method to test a new key to determine whether it will work in your vehicle. Be sure to remove the key from the ignition before you begin testing it, otherwise the new key may have an incorrect VATS value and not function in your car.
Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys
Today's key fobs do more than just unlock or start cars. They often have advanced features that a lot of owners aren't aware of. They can be used as a security gadget or a theft deterrent. key cutting open now can lock and unlock your door from a distance and make chirping sounds to aid in locating your car in a lot or activate it by pressing the button. This is a lot more functionality than you obtain from a traditional keychain remote. Unfortunately, all that added functionality also means that smart key fobs may be more expensive to replace than standard keychain remotes. They also need to be programmed by the dealer.
In fact, some retailers will charge up to $100 to replace a single smart key fob. This is a significant amount to pay for something that spends a lot of its time in purses and pockets where it is easily dropped, damaged or exposed to extreme humidity and temperatures. Fortunately, some automakers have developed ways to safeguard smart key fobs from the most common kinds of 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 through false signals from a nearby transmitter.
One method of protecting the key fob's RFID is to keep it in a metal case or use a dedicated RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. The ease of use of this technology is compromised if must take your key fob out every time you want to use it from the case.
Some newer policies like auto club memberships and extended warranties will pay for a replacement fob or reimburse you in the event that it's lost. You can also save money on dealership charges and get your fob cut at the hardware store or locksmith which offers key-fob cloning.
For the majority of drivers, the decision to purchase an extra key fob will depend on how crucial your car's keyless entry and push-button starter functions are. It is always advisable to keep a spare key or fob on hand in the event that you misplace yours. And if you need to purchase a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a wide selection of fobs for the majority of cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and efficient service is 50% less than the price you would buy from a dealership.
Traditional Keys
The traditional car key is one piece of metal with a series of grooves cut into it. These grooves are designed to fit certain locks. These keys will open your locks and begin your vehicle, provided that you don't replace them with the remote key or smart key. The only drawback to using an old-fashioned car key is that you have to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional car key has been damaged or lost you'll need to visit the Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one created.
Depending on how long has passed since the last time you got your keys cut There are many options to pick from when it comes time to get another copy made. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines and others are laser-cut with added security features.
Modern keys are equipped with advanced features like encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or open locks. Transponder chips are an additional anti-theft feature. They are embedded into the key and connect to your vehicle. This makes it only work only when you're within a specific distance.
If you decide to use a traditional, standard key, a locksmith is able to make a new one using a standard key cutter machine which can be purchased at many hardware stores. This is cheaper than a key fob, or a transponder, and you will still be able to use your trunk locks, trunk locks, and doors.
You could also replace your traditional keys for your car with a laser cut version that has an unique pattern. These keys were introduced in the early 1990s and are a popular choice for those who want to safeguard their automobiles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chips that are programmed to work only with your vehicle. If the chips aren't present in your vehicle, it won't respond to the signals from the key and won't be able to start.