Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is much more than just forming an object of metal. It is a complex process that ensures security, functionality and longevity of keys.
It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car or have them break in the lock. You will need a new car key in order to ensure that you are able to drive your vehicle at all times.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are likely be installed in cars that were built in the last 20 years. These microchips are located in the handle of the key and transmit a signal to the onboard computers of your vehicle when you use the key. The onboard computer detects the digital serial number within the chip and allows the car to start if it is the correct one. This prevents thieves from hijacking your vehicle, as they would need to know the unique serial number.
The microchip inside the key transmits a low-level signal to the car's receiver. The radio signal activates your microchip that then transmits the code to the onboard computer of the car. The car will only start only if it recognizes the code. This prevents the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of theft of cars.
Car keys with chips can be made by an authorized locksmith who offers these services. They are also available at a few automotive stores, such as AutoZone. These stores have a large range of keys and can help you find the right one for your vehicle. They can help you program your vehicle's chip, which is required to use the device.
You can also get laser cut keys, which are more secure than conventional flat keys. These keys have an cylinder for locking that is more difficult to pick, and they are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or special software. This technology is more common in high-end vehicles, however it is now available in a wide range of low-cost automobiles as well.
Another type of car key that's hard to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. These keys feature a black resistor on the blade of the key that is programmed with one of fifteen potential values to prevent the car from starting that it's not designed to. lowest price are more expensive to buy and require a special key programming machine that is only found at some locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the advent of transponder keys and automobiles equipped with computer chips to control the car's ignition, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a key with a resistor embedded in it to confirm that the right key was used to start the car. The black VATS Pellet in the middle of a VATS Key isn't an electronic chip that is like those present on modern keys. It is merely carbon or a block that is sized to have an electrical resistance.
GM employed 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets. They attached the key blades to them so that, when the key is turned on, a coded message is sent to the module. If the signal matches the resistance value of the transistor in the VATS pellet, the relay in the starter circuit is activated and the engine will start to run. This isn't a way to make a car safe from theft however it can delay the thief by at minimum 15 to 20 minutes.
Unfortunately, after a significant amount of use the VATS module in your car could begin to wear out. The two small wires in the ignition move each when the key is introduced. Over time, the wires may begin 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 yourself by decoding your VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance of a key by using the multimeter. You can determine the resistance value by putting one of the leads on the prongs made of metal on both sides of your key.
This is also a good way to test the new key to determine if it will work 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 may not work in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs for Keys
Key fobs today do more than just unlock or start the vehicle. They can also be a security device and a burglar deterrent, with a lot of them having advanced features that owners might not even be aware of. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, emit noises that help you find your car in a parking lot and even let you summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. This is a lot more than you'd imagine from a traditional keychain remote. Unfortunately, all that added features can mean that smart key fobs can be more expensive to replace than traditional keychain remotes. They also require programming by the dealer.
In fact, some dealers will charge up to $100 to replace a single smart key fob. That's a lot to pay for a device that spends a lot of its time snagging around in pockets and purses, where it is easily dropped, damaged, or exposed to extreme moisture and temperatures. Certain automakers have devised methods to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic threats, including relay attacks. These are typically combined with remote start hacks that allows thieves access to your vehicle's settings by the transmission of a fake signal from another transmitter close to.
One way to protect the key fob's RFID is to keep it in a metal case or use an RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from its protective case each time you make use of it is a hassle and a detriment to the efficiency of the technology.
Some newer policies, such as auto club memberships or extended warranties will cover the cost of replacing the fob or reimburse you if it is lost. You can also save money on new car dealer charges and have your fob cut at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store which offers key-fob cloning.
For most drivers who want to buy an additional key fob is contingent on the importance of your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. It is always advisable to keep a spare fob or key on hand in case you lose yours. Batteries Plus offers a large range of replacement fobs that fit most cars and trucks. Additionally, we provide an easy, fast service that is approximately 50% less than you'd spend at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
The car key of old is one piece of metal with a series of grooves carved into it. These grooves are made to fit certain locks. They can unlock your locks and start your vehicle, provided that you don't replace them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only downside of using a traditional car key is that you need to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional car key has been damaged or lost it is necessary to visit a Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one created.
There are a variety of choices to pick from based on how long it's been since you've cut your keys. Certain keys are cut using mechanical machines and others are laser-cut with enhanced security features.
Modern keys have advanced features such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes sure that only the correct key can be used to start your vehicle, making it more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Transponder chips are another anti-theft device. They are embedded in the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This means that they only effective only when you're within a specific distance.
If you choose to use a conventional, standard key, a locksmith can create 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 use your locks, doors and trunk.
You can also replace your standard keys to your car with a laser-cut version that has an unique pattern. These keys first came out in the 1990s, and are now a popular option for those looking to provide extra security to their automobiles. Laser cut keys are typically equipped with transponder chips that are programmed to only work with your vehicle. If these chips aren't installed in your vehicle it won't receive the signals from the key, and will not start.