Car Key Cutting Explained

Cutting a car key is more than just bending a piece metal. It is a complicated procedure that ensures security, functionality, and longevity of the keys.

It is not unusual to lose keys to your car, or have them break through the lock. You'll require a new car key in order to ensure that you are able to drive your car at all times.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips are likely be fitted in vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. These microchips are tiny inside the handle of your key which transmit an electronic signal to the car's onboard computer when you are using it. The onboard computer checks the serial number digitally of the chip prior to it allows the car to start. This stops theft of vehicles since thieves need to know your unique serial number to have a chance at hijacking it.

The microchip inside your car keys transmits an low-level radio signal to the receiver inside the car. This radio signal activates your microchip which then transmits code to the onboard computer of the car. The car will be able to recognize this code and will only allow it to start if the key is the right one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.

Locksmiths who cuts car keys near me provide these services can make car keys with chips. Some auto dealers like AutoZone sell keys with chips. They have a vast selection of keys and can assist you in selecting the best one for your car. They can help you program the chip in your vehicle, which is required to operate the device.

Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys have the lock cylinder, which is more difficult to pick, and they are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or specialized software. This technology is more common in luxury vehicles, but it is now available in a wide range of low-cost cars as well.

The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different type of key that's difficult to duplicate. The keys have a resistor that is black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to one of fifteen possible values to stop it from starting a vehicle it's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to buy and require a specific key programming device that can only be located at certain locksmiths.

VATS Keys

Before the days of transponder keys and cars equipped with computer chips to control the ignition of a car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a standard key with a resistor pellet embedded in it to confirm that the correct key is being used to start the car. The VATS pellet black in the center of a VATS key is not an electronic chip as used in modern smart keys, it is simply a piece of carbon appropriately sized to have a specific electrical resistance value.

GM used 15 different resistance values for the VATS pellets. They attached them to the key's blade so that when the key is turned on the ignition a coded signal will be 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 will start to run. This does not make a car safe from burglary however, it can deter a thief for at least 15 to twenty minutes.

Unfortunately, after a long period of use, the VATS module in your car may begin to wear out. The two wires that connect the ignition are moved every time the key is placed. Over time the wires could start 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 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. All you have to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter onto the prongs made of metal sticking out on both sides of the key, and then look at the display of the ohmmeter to find out the resistance value of your key.

This method is also a great way to test the new key to determine whether it will work in your car. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. If not, the key may have an incorrect VATS and will not function in your vehicle.

Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys

Key fobs today can do more than unlock or start a car. A lot of them come with advanced features that most owners aren't aware of. They can be used as a security gadget or a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door remotely, make chirping noises to assist you in finding your vehicle when you're in a hurry or call it up by pressing the button. This is a lot more features than you obtain from a traditional keychain remote. Unfortunately, all that extra capabilities also means that smart key fobs could be more expensive to replace than traditional keychain remotes. They also need to be programmed by the dealer.

Some sellers charge as much as $100 for one smart fob. That's a lot to pay for something that spends much of its time in pockets and purses, where it is easily damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme humidity and temperatures. Fortunately, some automakers have developed ways to protect smart key fobs from the most common types of electronic attacks like relay attacks. They are usually paired with remote start hacks which allows thieves to access your vehicle's settings through the transmission of a fake signal another transmitter near.

To protect a smart fob you can put it in a metal casing or put it in an RFID blocking case. This will prevent the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from a case that is protected each time you use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.

Certain policies that are more recent such as auto club memberships or extended warranties, will cover the cost of a replacement fob or reimburse you in the event that it is lost. You can also save money on new-car dealer charges and have your fob cut at the hardware store or locksmith that offers key-fob cloning services.

The decision of whether to buy a new fob is dependent on the significance of your car's keyless start and entry functions. In any case it is advisable to keep a spare car key cutting near me key or fob handy just in case you lose yours. If you have to buy a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a large selection of fobs to fit the majority of cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and convenient service costs about 50% less than the price you would pay at a dealership.

Traditional Keys

Traditional car keys are a single piece of metal that has a series of grooves cut into it to fit into a particular lock. These keys can open your locks and begin your vehicle, provided that you haven't replaced them with the remote key or smart key. The only disadvantage of using an old-fashioned car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your car key is damaged or lost, you will need to visit the Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one created.

Based on the amount of time that has passed since the last time you cut your keys, there are several different options to pick from when it comes to getting another copy made. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines or lasers, while others are cut with added security features.

Modern keys have advanced features such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Other security features that prevent theft include transponder chips that are embedded in the key to connect with your vehicle and allow it to only work when it's within the range of your car.

If you opt to use a traditional, standard key, a locksmith is able to create a new key using a standard key cutter machine which can be purchased at many hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or a transponder. you can locksmith cut car keys still operate your trunk, locks, and doors.

Another option is to have your traditional car key replaced with a laser cut version with a unique pattern. These keys were introduced in the 1990s and are a popular choice for those who wish to secure their vehicles. The majority of laser cut keys come with transponder chips that are designed to work only with your specific vehicle. If these chips aren't present in your car it won't be able to respond to the signals coming from the key and won't start.