Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a standard mechanical key, you should be able to get a replacement at any hardware store for inexpensive. The key needs to be programmed either by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to connect them to your vehicle. They are costly however many car insurance companies will pay for the cost.
Mechanical Keys
There are still car keys that are solely mechanical, such as the ones you place in an ignition lock cylinder and turn to start your car. If your car has one of these keys, replacing the key and fob is fairly inexpensive (if they get lost or stolen).
A locksmith can make you new keys at a lower cost than what you purchase from a dealership. You could also ask a friend or neighbor that is proficient in programming aftermarket transponder keys (which are cheaper than keys from factory) cut keys and program them. Getting a spare is important since modern cars won't be able to start when a key is not programmed with the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, but they contain a hidden electronic chip embedded in the bottom of their plastic design that communicates with your vehicle's computer system. Your vehicle will recognize the code inside the chip and accept it, but it will not start if a different code is utilized.
If the spare key you have has chips, it will need to be programmed by a dealer. They'll require a specific machine to cut the key and program it. These machines are only available through certain dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith has the tools needed to make keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
It is expensive to replace keys with remotes, particularly if you require an extra. If you have just the key shank missing, and a functioning replacement fob you can attempt to reprogramme your fob on your own. However, it could be time-consuming and difficult. It's better to go to an authorized dealer if you've lost both the key and the fob.
There are different kinds of car keys that require a more specific set of skills to replace, such as flip keys and smart keys. These are more complicated and require replacement by the dealer. Certain key fobs come with an electronic key that folds into the enclosure and opens doors, or they're operated with proximity sensors to open and start your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
If your car is built in the past 10 years or so, it's likely to have transponder keys. These keys contain an embedded microchip and an electronic receiver that is programmed to communicate with start your car.
Transponder keys are a great way of deterring theft, as they require two parts to start the car - the transmitter in the key, and the receiver connected to the immobilizer. Without both the key and the immobilizer system being present, the car will not start and is impossible to connect hotwire.
The key chips come with an unique serial number that is specific to your vehicle. When the key is inserted into the ignition the serial number is sent to the immobilizer in the car and verified that it is compatible, it will then allow the engine to start. This security feature can only be overcome by a specific device that can read the chip to match it with another car.
When you have a transponder key replacement it is necessary to visit a locksmith that has the necessary equipment to reprogram the key into your car. Some car dealerships offer this service as well but they tend to be more expensive than a private locksmith because of their costs.
Finding a new car key that comes with a chip it can be a very complex procedure. To program your car, the key must be programmed on a specific machine. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to do the job properly.
Some of the simpler chip keys can be cloned at the majority of auto parts stores, but you need to be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure that the proper information is being transferred to the new key. Many people make the error of visiting their dealer to have their chip key copied, and end up paying more than they need to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred to as a sidewinder key due to the distinctive winding cut that is made on the shank of the key. They provide an additional layer of security to your car. They are a fantastic deterrent to auto theft because they require specialized machinery to duplicate.
They also come with built-in chips to stop unauthorized key copying from starting your vehicle. They have a unique code that must be programmed into your car to unlock it and begin it. This additional layer of security is a fantastic way to protect your investment and deter thieves who might be trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to sell it to.
Keys cut with lasers differ slightly from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves cut on the key. They also have a thicker key shaft which is an excellent indication that it's not your regular car key. Locksmiths typically employ a machine known as milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. It's akin to a drill bit and is designed to remove metal with precise angles.
These are the most secure keys you can purchase for your vehicle. They're hard to duplicate and must by cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. They're not created using traditional keys. Instead, they're made of a tiny piece of steel that's shaped according into a specific code at the factory before being cut with laser. This kind of key is able to withstand a lot wear and tear, and is among the best options to protect your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it can either fold into the fob or be released with the click of a button. Keys like this are typically used in German cars and offer an additional layer of security against car thieves. They also make it extremely difficult for a thief to pick your vehicle or pick-lock it, as the cylinder is extremely rugged and difficult to break into.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the conventional single piece of carved metal. They have a chip with an unique code that is encoded on every key. vehicle key replacement transmits a message to the computer onboard of your vehicle whenever you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer will then signal the right frequency that allows you to start your vehicle.
The chip of the smart key is equipped with several security features to guard it from theft. The key emits a low-frequency signal, which can only be detected by your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will trigger another one that is an individual sequence that only your vehicle can understand. This stops a cyber-savvy criminal from using an external generator to "fool" the system and perform the work for other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, some smart keys also have additional functions such as storing specific preferences for drivers, remotely opening windows or the sunroof, and more. These can be done by activating the key's proximity sensor or pressing a button on the key, or, in some instances, twisting a small metal part inside the key.
Most key fobs feature a button that can unlock the doors by themselves, but some have an additional way to open them with a slot or by placing the dead key close to the dashboard, where it is able to hold an inductive coil that can transfer energy. Some key fobs have mechanical (fully emergency) key blade that is inside the key.
Replacing a key with a smart chip typically requires a visit to the dealer, who will either have the replacement on hand or purchase it for you. The dealer will also have to program the new key to identify your vehicle. You can also visit a locksmith for the replacement key fob to be programmed and then replaced. A locksmith might charge more than the dealer, but they'll likely be able to complete the job more quickly and at a lower cost.