Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a standard mechanical key, you should be able to get a replacement at any hardware store for relatively inexpensive. The key must be programmed either by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These keys are expensive, but many car insurance companies will pay for the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase mechanical keys for cars, the ones that you insert into an ignition lock cylinder to start your vehicle. If your car has one of these, replacing the fob and keys is relatively cheap (if they get lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create new keys for less than what you purchase from a dealership. You can also ask a neighbor or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys aftermarket (which are cheaper than the keys made by the factory) to cut you a spare and then program it. Getting a spare is important because modern cars won't start when a key that isn't programmed with the correct chip is used.
Transponder keys are similar to mechanical keys but contain an electronic chip in the base. This chip is connected to the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will accept the code on the chip, but will not start if you use another code.
If the spare key you have has chips, you'll have to bring it to a dealer to get it programmed. They will need to use a specific machine to cut the key and program it. These machines are available only at certain dealerships and it is unlikely that a locksmith would have the equipment necessary to make a key using transponder.
Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, particularly if you need an extra. If you only have the key shank missing, and a functioning replacement fob you can try to reprogramme your fob by yourself. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging. If you've lost the entire fob and key but you're not sure you should seek out a dealer as the best option.
Other kinds of car keys require more specific skills to replace. These include flip keys and smart keys. These are more complex and typically need to be replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs have keys that are spring-loaded and fold into the enclosure and opens a door or uses proximity sensors to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the past 10 years or so, it's likely to have transponder keys. These keys have an embedded microchip inside the key and the car's receiver which are both programmed to communicate with one another to start the vehicle.
Transponder keys are a fantastic way to stop theft because they require two parts in order for the car to start that is the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer system present the car will not start and is impossible to connect hotwire.
These key chips have a unique serial number for your vehicle. When the key is inserted into your ignition, the serial number is transmitted to the immobilizer of the car and verified that it matches up the number, which allows the engine to start. This security feature can only be defeated by a special device which can read the chip and match it with another car.
You'll require a locksmith that has the tools to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service, however they are generally more expensive than a private locksmith due to their overhead.
It isn't easy to get an entirely new key that has chip. To program your car, the key needs to be programmed using a specific machine. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to do it properly.
Some of the less complicated chip keys can be cloned at most auto part stores, but you need to 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 visiting their dealer to purchase an exact copy of a chip key only to end up paying high prices.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, also referred to as sidewinder keys because of their distinctive winding cuts to the shank of the key provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great security measure against theft of your vehicle because they require special equipment to duplicate.
Like transponder keys, they feature built-in chips that prevent unauthorised copies of keys from opening your vehicle. They also usually contain a unique code the key, which needs to be programmed for your particular vehicle in order to allow it to be opened and started. This additional layer of security is a great way to protect your investment and deter thieves who could be trying to steal your car to make parts or sell it on.
Laser-cut keys differ from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves that are carved on the key. They also have a thicker key shaft that is an indication that it's not your regular car key. Locksmiths typically use milling machines to cut these keys. It's akin to a drill bit and it's designed to remove metal in very precise angles.
These are the most secure keys you can purchase for your vehicle. They are difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. In contrast to traditional keys, they're made from a small piece of steel that's cut into a shape and then cut with a laser in the factory. This kind of key can endure a lot of wear and tear and is among the best options to protect your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it could fold in the fob or pop out with the click of a button. The keys are typically used in German cars, and provide an extra layer of security against car thieves. They also make it extremely difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock your vehicle since the cylinder is extremely tough and hard to break into.
Smart Keys Keys
Contrary to the conventional single piece of carved metal, smart keys make use of RFID, or radio-frequency identification to connect with the car. automotive key replacement means that they are equipped with tiny chips that contain an encrypted code that is unique to each key. The key transmits a message to the computer onboard of your vehicle each time you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer then signals the appropriate frequency and allows you to connect to your car and begin it.
The chip of the smart key has several security features to guard it from theft. First, the key emits a low-frequency signal which isn't picked up by any receiver other than your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will transmit another one that is a unique code that only your car can understand. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using an electronic pulse generator to "fool the system" and perform the work on other vehicles.
Some smart keys offer specific features, like storing driver preferences and opening windows remotely, or the sunroof from afar and many other. These features are accessible by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button, or, in some instances it is as simple as twisting a tiny piece of metal inside the key.
Most of these key fobs feature an unlock button that opens the doors on their own however some come with another method of opening them with a slot or by placing the dead key close to the dashboard, where it is able to hold an inductive coil which can transfer energy. Some even have an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade concealed in the key to allow this.
Replacing a smart lock requires an appointment with a dealer, who can either request the replacement or have it on hand. They'll also have to program the new key to recognize the car you are driving. However, you can also visit a locksmith to get your replacement key fob programed and replaced. A locksmith will charge more than a dealer, however, they can complete the task faster and at a lower cost.