Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting keys for cars is more than just bending metal. It is a complex process that ensures security, functionality and longevity of keys.
It is not unusual to lose keys to your car, or have them break in the lock. You'll need a replacement car key to ensure that you can drive your vehicle at all times.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are likely to be added to cars that were that were built in the last 20 years. These microchips are situated in the key's handle and send a signal to the onboard computers of your vehicle when you turn the key. The computer in the car examines the digital serial number of the chip before allowing the car to begin. This prevents car thieves from stealing your car because they'd have to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip in your car key transmits an unintentional radio signal to the car's receiver. The radio signal activates the microchip, and it then sends an informational code to the car's onboard computer. The car will be able to recognize this code and only allow it to start if the key is the right one. This prevents the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of stealing cars.
Locksmiths who offer these services can create keys for cars that contain chips. Some auto dealers like AutoZone offer them. They have a huge selection of keys, and can help you find the best one for your vehicle. They can help you program the chip in your vehicle which is needed for the device to function.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. They are more secure than traditional flat keys due to having a lock that is harder to pick. They can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting machines or specialized software. This technology is most commonly found in high-end vehicles however, it is now available on many affordable models.
Another type of key for cars that is difficult to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. These keys come with a resistor black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of a variety of values to stop it from starting a car that's not intended to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a specific key programming device that can only be found at some locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys and cars that had computers built-in to control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a regular key with a resistor pellet embedded inside it to confirm that the correct key is used to start the car. The VATS pellet that is black that is located in the middle of the VATS Key is not a smart chip as used on the majority of modern keys. It is simply a block or carbon that is sized to hold an electrical resistance value.
GM used 15 different resistance values for the VATS pellets and attached them to the blade of the key, so that when the key is turned on in the ignition a coded signal will be transmitted to the module. If the signal matches the signal of the transistor in a VATS pellet then the relay in starter circuit will be activated and the engine will start to run. This doesn't make a vehicle secure from theft, but it will delay the theft by at least 15 to 20 minutes.
After a prolonged period of usage the VATS module may begin to wear out. The two small wires in the ignition are moved each time the key is placed. As time passes the wires can start to break. Once enough wires are broken, the signal to the module gets lost and the module won't be able to start the car.
The good news is that you can solve this problem yourself at home by decoding your own VATS key. You'll need a multimeter and a chart to determine the resistance value of your key, but it is not that difficult. All you have to do is put one of the leads of your ohm gauge on the prongs made of metal sticking out on both sides of the key, and then examine the display of your ohm meter to find out the resistance value of your key.
mobile key cutting is also a great way to test the new key to determine if 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 work in your vehicle.
mobile car key cutting with Smart Keys
Key fobs of today are more than just a way to 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 remotely lock and unlock your doors, make chirping sounds to help you locate your vehicle in a parking lot or allow you to call your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. This is more than you could ever expect from the traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due to their extra functions. They also have to be programmed at the dealer.
Some dealers will charge up to $100 for one smart fob. That's a huge sum to pay for a device that spends much of its time in pockets and purses, where it can be easily damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme moisture and temperatures. Certain automakers have developed strategies to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic threats, including relay attacks. They are typically used in combination with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to gain access to your vehicle's settings through an untrue signal from a nearby transmitter.
To protect a smart fob you can put it in a casing made of metal or put it in an RFID blocking case. This will prevent the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from its protective case every time you need to use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.
Some newer policies such as auto club memberships and extended warranties will cover the cost of an additional fob or reimburse you if it gets lost. You can also avoid paying dealer fees by having your fob cloned by a locksmith or hardware retailer that provides key-fob cloning.
For most drivers who want to buy an extra key fob will depend on the importance of your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. In any event you should have an extra fob or key in case you lose it. Batteries Plus offers a large choice of replacement fobs that fit on most cars and trucks. Plus, our quick and efficient service is 50% less than what you'd buy from the dealership.
Traditional Keys
The classic car key is made of a single piece of steel with a series of grooves carved into it. These grooves are made to fit specific locks. These keys will open your locks and begin your car, assuming you haven't replaced them by an electronic key or a remote key. The only disadvantage of using the traditional car key is that you need to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional car key is damaged or lost it is necessary to visit a Gainesville locksmith to get a new one made.
Depending on how long has passed since you last had your keys cut, there are several different options available for you to select 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.
Some of these features that come with modern-day keys include encryption as well as other security mechanisms. Encryption makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or open locks. Other anti-theft features include transponder chips, which are incorporated into the key to communicate with your car and make it work only when it's within a specific distance of your vehicle.
If you opt to use a traditional standard key, a locksmith is able to make a new one with a standard key cutting machine, which is available at many hardware stores. This is less expensive than using the key fob or transponder key, and you'll be able to use your doors, locks and trunk.
You could also replace your traditional keys to your car with a laser-cut version with a unique pattern. These keys first came out in the late 1990s, and are a popular choice for those who wish to enhance the security of their automobiles. Laser cut keys are typically equipped with transponder chips programmed to only work with your vehicle. If the chips aren't present in your vehicle it won't respond to the signals transmitted by the key.