Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is much more than just forming an object of metal. It is a complicated process that ensures safety, functionality and durability of keys.
It is not unusual to lose your car keys or even have it break in the lock. You will need an alternative car key to ensure that you are able to drive your vehicle at all times.
Transponder Keys
If your car was manufactured within the past 20 years, it's likely that it has a transponder chip. These microchips are tiny in the handle of your key that transmit signals to the car's onboard computer whenever you use it. The computer onboard checks the serial number digitally of the chip before allowing the car to start. This helps prevent theft of cars as thieves would have to know your unique serial number in order to be able to steal it.
The microchip in the key transmits a low-level signal the receiver within the car. This radio signal activates the microchip, and it then sends an informational code to the car's onboard computer. The car will recognize this code and only allow it to start if the key is the right one. This prevents "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.
Car keys with chips can be made by a locksmith that offers these services. Some automotive retailers such as AutoZone offer keys with chips. Those stores carry a huge selection of keys and can assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your vehicle. They can also help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is required to use it.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. They are more secure than flat keys due to the fact that they have a lock that is harder to pick. They can only be duplicated using expensive laser key cutting equipment, or specialized software. This technology is most commonly found in high-end cars but is now accessible on a variety of affordable models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different kind of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys come with a resistor 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 that's not intended to. They are expensive and require the use of a key programming machine which is only available at a few locksmiths.
Keys to VATS
Before the advent of transponder keys and automobiles 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 internal resistor to verify that the correct key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet that is black in the middle of a VATS Key is not a smart chip like those found on most modern keys. It's just a block or carbon that is sized to have an electrical resistance value.
GM employed 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and connected them to the blade of the key, so that when the key is turned in the ignition the coded signal is sent to the module. If the signal is in line with the resistance value of the transistor in the VATS pellet, the relay in the starter circuit is activated and the engine begins to run. This doesn't make a vehicle secure from theft however it will delay the theft by at least 15 to 20 minutes.
After a lot of usage, the VATS module can start to wear out. Each time a key is inserted into the ignition it moves two very small wires within the ignition, and with time, the wires can begin to break. If enough wires are damaged the signal goes out to the module and the car won't begin.
You can solve this issue at home by decoding your VATS key. You'll need a multimeter and a chart to find out the resistance value of your key, but it is not that difficult. You can determine the resistance value by putting one of the leads on the metal prongs on both sides of your key.
key cutter can also be a good method to test the new key to determine whether it works in your car. Be sure to remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, otherwise the new key could be displaying an incorrect VATS value and not work in your car.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs today are more than simply unlock or start the car. They can also be used as a security device and security measure against theft, with many of them featuring advanced features that the owners might not even know about. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, make chirping sounds to help you locate your vehicle in a parking lot or allow you to call your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. That's a lot more than you'd imagine from a traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their additional functions. They also require to be programmed at the dealer.
Some dealers charge up to $100 for one smart fob. It's a high price for a device that's often tossed around in pockets and purses 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 threats, including relay attacks. These are often combined with a remote start hack which allows thieves to access your vehicle's settings via the transmission of a fake signal by another transmitter nearby.
One way to protect the smart key fob is to keep it in a metal case or use a dedicated RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from its protective case every time you want to use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.
Fortunately, some of the newer car insurance policies, auto club memberships, and extended warranty coverage will pay for the cost of a replacement or reimburse you for the lost fob. You can also save money on dealer fees and have your fob cut at the hardware store or locksmith who offers key fob cloning.
For the majority of drivers who want to buy an additional key fob is contingent on how crucial your car's keyless entry and push-button starter functions are. Always keep a spare fob or key on hand in the event that you lose yours. Batteries Plus offers a large selection of replacement fobs that will fit most cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and convenient service costs about 50% less than the price you would buy from the dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys are a single length of metal that has grooves cut into it to fit in a specific lock. These keys will open your locks and begin your car, provided you don't replace them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only disadvantage of using a traditional car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional car key has been lost or broken it is necessary to visit an Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one made.
There are several options to select from based on how long it has been since you had your keys cut. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines or lasers, while others are cut with security features that are enhanced.
Some of these modern features that come with modern keys include encryption and other security mechanisms. The encryption makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Other anti-theft features include transponder chips that are embedded in the key to communicate with your car and make it only work when it's within the distance of your vehicle.
If you decide to use a traditional key, your locksmith can design the new key using a standard cutter machine that is available at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or a transponder, and you are still able to operate your locks, trunk, and doors.
Another option is to have your standard car key substituted with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. These keys first came out in the 1990s, and are now a popular option for people who want to provide extra security to their vehicles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chip that is programmed to only work with your vehicle. If the chips aren't present in your vehicle, it won't respond to the signals from the key, and will not start.