Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a basic mechanical key it is likely to find a replacement at any hardware store for relatively inexpensive. The key must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a trip to the dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These keys are expensive however, many insurance companies will pay for the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase car keys that are only mechanical, like the ones you put into an ignition lock cylinder, and turn to start your vehicle. If your car is equipped with one of these, replacing the key and fob is relatively cheap (if they get lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create a new basic key for less than you would pay at a dealership. You can also ask a neighbour or friend who is able to program transponder keys (which are cheaper than the factory keys) to make you a spare key and program it. replacement car key costs is essential to have a spare key as modern vehicles won't start when the key does not have the proper chip.
Transponder keys are like mechanical keys but contain an electronic chip within the base. This chip communicates with the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will recognize the code in the chip and accept it, however it will not start if another code is utilized.
If your spare key has chips it must be programmed at a dealership. They'll require an equipment that can cut the key and program it. These machines are available only at certain dealerships and it is unlikely that a locksmith have the equipment necessary to make a key using transponder.
It is expensive to replace keys using remotes, especially if require a spare. If you have only the shank of your key missing and an operational replacement fob, you could try reprogramming your fob by yourself. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging. You're better off going to a dealer when you've lost the fob and the key.
There are other kinds of car keys that require a specialized set of skills to replace, such as flip keys and smart keys. They're more complicated and require replacement by a dealer. Some key fobs are operated by proximity sensors or a door opener that is spring-loaded.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are most likely to be used in cars built in the last 10 years. The keys contain a microchip in the key itself and the car's receiver that both have been programmed to communicate with each other in order to start the car.
Transponder keys are an excellent method to deter theft since they require two parts in order for the car to start that is the transmitter (transponder) inside the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. The car will not start without the key and immobilizer system.
These key chips are programmed with a serial number that is unique to the vehicle you own. The serial number of the key is transmitted to the immobilizer of the car and verified to be in line. If it does then the engine will begin. The only thing that could stop this security feature is a device that is able to detect the chip and match it to another car.
When you have a transponder key replaced it is necessary to visit a locksmith that has the necessary equipment to reprogram the key into your car. Some car dealerships also offer this service, however their overheads make them more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
It isn't easy to find an entirely new key that has a chip. The key has to be cut using a specific machine to get the right tracks that can be programmed to assign the key to your car. It requires specialized software, and the correct key cutter to do the job properly.
Some of the simpler chip keys can be cloned at most auto part stores, but you must know the serial number of the original key to ensure the proper information is being programmed into the new key. Many people make the mistake of going to their dealer to get a chip key copied and end with a bill that is higher than what they should.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also known as a sidewinder keys due to the distinctive winding cut that is made on the shank of the key. They add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. Because it requires specialized equipment to duplicate these keys, they're an excellent security measure against auto theft.
Like transponder keys, they have embedded chips that stop unauthorised copies of keys from getting into your car. They also typically contain a unique code the key that must be programmed to your specific vehicle to unlock it and start it. This extra level of security will protect your investment and prevent thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle in exchange for parts or to sell it.
In terms of design, laser-cut keys are slightly different from conventional mechanical cut keys in that they have less grooves carved out on the key. They also have a more robust key shaft that is an indication that it's not your regular car key. Generally, locksmiths employ a machine known as milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. This tool is similar to a drill bit and is designed to remove metal at precise angles.
These are the safest 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 made with traditional keys. Instead, they're made from a small piece steel that's shaped according into a specific code at the factory, and then cut using the laser. This kind of key can endure a lot of wear and tear and is one of the best choices for protecting your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it will fold into the fob or be released with the click of the button. These kinds of keys are used extensively in German automobiles and provide an extra layer of security against car thieves. They also make it difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock your car since the cylinder is extremely rugged and is difficult to break.
Smart Keys Keys
Unlike the traditional single piece of carved metal smart keys make use of RFID, also known as radio-frequency identification to connect with the car. They are equipped with a chip that has an unique code that is encoded on each key. Whenever you unlock your car's doors or open the trunk, the key sends a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer. The computer will then prompt the appropriate frequency to allow you to start your car.
The chip inside the smart key comes with a variety of security features to guard it from theft. The key emits a low-frequency signal that can only be detected by your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will send an additional signal that is a unique code that only your car is able to understand. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using an electronic pulse generator to "fool the system" and make the key work on other vehicles.
Some smart keys have special features, like the ability to store preferences for drivers and opening windows remotely, or the sunroof from afar, and many more. This can be accomplished by activating the key fob's proximity sensor by pressing a button on the key or, in some instances, by twisting a tiny metal piece inside the key.
Some key fobs can be opened by placing the dead key in a slot, or by placing it next to an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Some even include an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade that is hidden inside the key to enable this.
Replacing a smart key usually requires a visit to the dealership, who will either have the replacement in stock or purchase it for you. The dealer will also need 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. Locksmiths may charge more than the dealer, but they'll be able to do the job more quickly and at a lower cost.