Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting a car key is more than just bending metal. It is a complicated process that guarantees safety, functionality, and longevity of the keys.
It is not uncommon to lose your car key or even have it break in the lock. You'll need a replacement car key to ensure that you are able to drive your vehicle at all times.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are likely be installed in cars built within the past 20 years. These microchips are in the handle of the key and transmit a signal your vehicle's onboard computers when you press the key. mobile car key cutting on board detects the digital serial number within the chip and allows the car to start if it's the right one. This prevents thieves from hijacking your vehicle because they'd have to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip in the key sends a low-level signal the receiver within the car. This radio signal activates the microchip that then transmits the code to the computer onboard of the car. The car will only start if it recognizes this code. This prevents "hot wiring" or other methods to steal cars.
Car keys with chips can be made at a locksmith that offers these services. They are also available at certain automotive stores, such as AutoZone. Those stores carry a huge selection of keys and can help you get the right one for your car. They can help you program the chip in your vehicle that is required to use the device.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys feature an cylinder for locking that is much more difficult to pick, and are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting equipment or special software. This technology is most commonly found in high-end cars however, it is now available on a variety of affordable models.
Another kind of car key that's hard to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. The keys have a resistor that is black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of 15 possible values to prevent it from starting a vehicle that's not designed to. These keys are costly and require a key programming machine, which is only available through certain locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the days of transponder keys and cars with built-in computer chips to control the ignition of a car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a key that has an embedded resistor to verify that the correct key was used to start the car. The black VATS pellet inside the middle of a VATS key is not an electronic chip as present in modern smart keys, it is simply a block of carbon properly sized to carry an exact electrical resistance.
GM employed 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets and attached them to key blades so that, when the key is turned on, a coded signal is sent to the module. If the signal matches the signal of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in starter circuit will turn on and the engine will begin to run. This doesn't make a car burglar-proof however it could delay thieves for at least fifteen to twenty minutes.
Unfortunately, after a long period of use the VATS module in your car can begin to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved each time a key is introduced. Over time, the wires may start to break. Once enough of the wires break the signal to the module is lost and the module won't be able to start the car.
The good news is that you can fix this issue at home by decoding your own VATS key. You'll require a multimeter as well as a chart to find out the resistance value of your key, but it's not difficult at all. All you have to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter on the prongs made of metal sticking out on both sides of the key, then read the ohm meter's display to find out the resistance value of your key.
This method is also a great way to test a new key to see whether it will work in your vehicle. Make sure you remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, as the new key could be displaying an incorrect VATS value and may not work in your car.
Smart Key Fobs for Keys
Key fobs today do more than just unlock or start cars. They are also a security device and a burglar deterrent, with a lot of them incorporating advanced features that the owners might not even be aware of. They can lock and unlock your door remotely and emit chirping sounds to assist you in finding your car in a lot, or allow you to summon it by pressing a button. That's a lot more than you'd think of from a standard keychain remote. Unfortunately, all that added functionality can mean that smart key fobs may be pricier to replace than standard keychain remotes, and they usually need to be programmed by the dealer.
Some dealers will charge up to $100 for a single smart fob. It's a high cost to pay for a device that's often tossed around in purses and pockets where it can be damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Certain automakers have devised methods to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. These are usually employed in conjunction with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to gain access to your vehicle's settings through false signals from a nearby transmitter.
One method to safeguard the key fob's RFID is to put it in a metal case or use a dedicated RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. However, the necessity of removing the key fob from a case that is protected each time you want to use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.
Some newer policies, such as auto club memberships as well as extended warranties will pay for replacing the fob or reimburse you in the event that it gets lost. You can also save money on dealer fees and have your fob cut at the hardware store or locksmith which offers key-fob cloning.
For most drivers who want to buy an additional key fob is contingent on how important 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 lose yours. If you have to buy a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a wide selection of fobs for most cars and trucks. Plus, we offer an easy, fast service that is approximately 50% less than you'd buy from a dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys for cars are a single length of steel that has grooves cut into it to fit into a particular lock. These keys will unlock your locks and start your vehicle, provided that you haven't replaced them by the remote key or smart key. The only drawback to using the traditional car key is that you have to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your car key is lost or broken, you will need to visit an Gainesville Locksmith to have a new one made.
Based on the amount of time that has passed since the last time you cut your keys, there are several different options available for you to select from when it comes to getting another copy. Some keys use mechanical cutting machines to create copies, whereas others use laser-cut keys that are made with security features in mind.
Some of these modern features that come with the modern keys include encryption as well as other anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption ensures that only the right key is used to open your vehicle, making it more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Transponder chips are another anti-theft feature. They are embedded into the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This means that they only function when you're within a certain distance.
If you decide to use a traditional, standard key, a locksmith can make a new one using a standard key cutter machine that can be found at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or a transponder key, and you'll be able to operate your locks, doors and trunk.
Another alternative is to have your standard car key replaced with a laser-cut version with a unique pattern. The first time these keys were introduced was in the 1990s and they're a popular choice for those who wish to add extra protection to their vehicles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chips programmed to work only with your vehicle. If the chips aren't present in your car it won't receive the signals emanating from the key, and will not start.