Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is more than just shaping the metal. It is a complicated procedure that ensures safety, functionality and durability of keys.
It is not unusual to lose your car keys or even break it in the lock. You will need a new car key in order to ensure that you are able to drive your car at all times.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed within the past 20 years, it is likely that it has a transponder chip. These chips are tiny microchips in the handle of your key that send an electronic signal to the car's onboard computer when you are using it. The computer in the car detects the digital serial number within the chip and allows the car to start if it is the correct one. This stops theft of vehicles, as thieves would need 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 car's receiver. The radio signal activates the microchip, and it then sends an encoded code to the car's onboard computer. The car will only begin only if it recognizes the code. This prevents the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of theft of cars.
Locksmiths that offer these services can make keys for cars with chips. Some auto dealers like AutoZone offer keys with chips. Those stores carry a huge range of keys and will help you get the right one for your car. They can even help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is essential for it to function.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. They have a lock cylinder that is much more difficult to pick, and they are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or with specialized software. This type of technology is typically found in luxury vehicles, but it is now accessible in a wide range of low-cost cars too.
Another type of key for cars that is difficult to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. These keys feature a black resistor in the key blade that is programmed with one of 15 possible values to prevent the car from starting that it's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a special key programming machine that is only found at some locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys or vehicles with computer chips built in to control the ignition, GM used a system called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses a key with an embedded resistor to confirm that the right key was used to start the car. The black VATS Pellet that is located in the middle of the VATS Key isn't a smart chip like those found on most modern keys. It is simply carbon or a block which is sized to have an electrical resistance value.
GM employed 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and attached them to the key's blade so that when the key is turned in the ignition, a coded signal is transmitted to the module. If the signal matches the signal of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in the starter circuit will activate and the engine will start to run. This doesn't make a car secure from theft, but it will delay the thief by at least 15 to 20 minutes.
After a prolonged period of usage the VATS module could start to wear out. The two wires that connect the ignition move each time the key is introduced. Over time the wires could start to break. Once enough wires are broken the signal is lost to the module and the car won't start.
The good news is that you can fix this issue yourself by decoding your VATS key. You'll need a multimeter and an indicator chart to determine the resistance value of your key, but it's 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.
This is a great method to test a new key and check if it works in your vehicle. Make sure you remove the key from the ignition before you begin testing it, as the new key could have an incorrect VATS value and not work in your car.
Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys
Key fobs today do more than simply unlock or start the vehicle. They also function as used as a security device and theft deterrent, with many of them incorporating advanced features that the owners might not even be aware of. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and emit chirping sounds to assist you in finding your vehicle in a parking lot or call it up by pressing the button. This is more functionality than you can get from a standard keychain remote. Unfortunately, all that extra functionality also means that smart key fobs may be pricier to replace than standard keychain remotes and they typically require programming by the dealer.
Some dealers will charge up to $100 for one smart fob. It's a high cost to pay for a device that is often jostled in purses and pockets in the event that it gets damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Certain automakers have developed strategies to shield smart key fobs from common electronic threats, including relay attacks. They are typically utilized in conjunction with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to gain access to the settings of your vehicle by sending an untrue signal from a nearby transmitter.
To protect a smart fob you can put it in a metal case or even an RFID blocking case. This will prevent the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from its case that is protected each time you make use of it is a hassle and a detriment to the efficiency of the technology.
Certain policies that are more recent, such as auto club memberships as well as 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 dealership charges and get your fob cut at a hardware store or locksmith who offers key fob cloning.
For most drivers who want to buy an extra key fob will depend on how crucial your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. In any event you should have an extra key or fob handy just in case you lose it. If you do need to purchase a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a large selection of fobs to fit the majority of vehicles and trucks. Plus, our quick and convenient service costs about 50% less than what you would spend at a dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys are a single length of metal that has a series of grooves cut into it to fit a specific lock. These keys can open your locks and open the car, as long as you haven't changed them out to a smart or remote key. The only disadvantage of using the traditional key is that it must be physically inserted into the ignition in order to start the vehicle. If your traditional car key has been damaged or lost, you will need to visit the Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one made.
Based on the amount of time that has passed since the last time you cut your keys There are many options available for you to select from when it comes to getting another copy made. Certain keys employ mechanical cutting machines to make copies, whereas others use laser-cut keys specifically designed with enhanced security features in mind.
Modern keys come with advanced features such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes sure that only the right key is used to start your car which makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Other anti-theft features include transponder chips that are incorporated into the key to communicate with your car and make it only work when it's within the range of your car.
If you choose to make use of a traditional key, your locksmith can make the new key using the standard cutter machine that can be bought at most hardware stores. This is cheaper than using a key fob or a transponder key, and you'll be able to use your locks, doors and trunk.
Another alternative is to get your standard car key substituted with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. cost of car key cutting came out in the 1990s, and are now a popular option for people who want to add extra protection to their vehicles. Laser cut keys typically contain transponder chips that are specifically programmed to work with your specific vehicle. If these chips are not present in your vehicle, it won't respond to the signals generated by the key.