Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting keys for cars is more than just bending metal. It is a complex procedure that ensures security, efficiency and the longevity of keys.
It is not unusual to lose your car key or even have it break in the lock. To ensure that you are able to always drive your vehicle you'll need a new key cut.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the last 20 years, it is likely to have transponder chips. These chips are tiny microchips inside the handle of your key that send signals to the car's onboard computer whenever you use it. The computer in the car scans the digital serial numbers in the chip and only allows the car to start if it's the correct one. This stops thieves from hijacking your vehicle since they'd need to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip inside the key transmits a low-level signal to the receiver within the car. This radio signal activates the microchip, which transmits a code to the computer onboard of the car. The car will recognize this code and only allow it to start only if the key is the right one. This prevents "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.
Car keys with chips can be made at an authorized locksmith who offers these services. Some automotive retailers such as AutoZone offer them. They have a vast range of keys and will help you get the right one for your vehicle. They can help you program the chip in your vehicle that is required for the device to function.
There are also laser cut keys that are more secure than traditional flat keys. These keys have an cylinder for locking that is more difficult to pick, and are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or specially designed software. This type of technology is typically found in high-end vehicles, however it is now available in many affordable models of automobiles as well.
Another type of key for cars that is difficult to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. The keys have a resistor that is black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to one of a variety of values to prevent it from starting a vehicle that's not intended to. These keys are costly and require an instrument for programming keys, which is only available at a few locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys and cars that had computers built-in to control the ignition, GM used a system called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses a key with an internal resistor to verify that the correct key was used to start the car. The black VATS Pellet that is located in the middle of the VATS Key is not an electronic chip that is like those used on the majority of modern keys. nearest key cutting is merely carbon or a block which is sized to provide an electrical resistance value.
GM employed 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and connected them to the key's blade, so that when the key is turned 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 car theft proof however it can delay the thief by at minimum 15 to 20 minutes.
Unfortunately, after a long period of usage, the VATS module in your car can begin to wear out. The two wires that connect the ignition are moved each when the key is placed. As time passes the wires could begin to break. Once enough wires are broken the signal to the module is lost and the module won't be able to start the car.
The good news is that you can fix this problem yourself at home by decoding your own VATS key. It's not hard to determine the resistance value of a key with the multimeter. You can determine the resistance value by putting one of the leads on the prongs of metal on both sides of your key.
This is a great method to test a new key and determine if it works in your car. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. If not the key may have an incorrect VATS and not work in your car.
Smart Key Fobs for Keys
Key fobs today do more than simply unlock or start the vehicle. They can also be used as a security device and security measure against theft, with many of them having advanced features that the owners might not even be aware of. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and make chirping sounds to aid in locating your vehicle when you're in a hurry or activate it by pressing a button. This is more than you could ever expect from the traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace because of their extra functions. They also require to be programmed at the dealer.
Some dealers charge up to $100 for one smart fob. It's a steep cost to pay for a device that is often jostled in pockets and purses where it could be damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity. Certain automakers have devised methods to shield smart key fobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. These are usually employed in conjunction with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to gain access to your vehicle's settings through a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.
To secure a smart card to protect it, you can place it in a casing made of metal or use an RFID blocking case. This will block the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from its protective case each time you use it undermines the convenience of the technology.
Some newer policies such as auto club memberships as well as extended warranties can pay for a replacement fob or reimburse you if it is lost. You can also save money on dealer fees and have your fob cut at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store which offers key-fob cloning.
The decision to purchase an additional fob is dependent on the significance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. In any case it is advisable to keep an extra fob or key in case in case you lose yours. If you have to buy a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a wide selection of fobs for the majority of cars and trucks. Plus, we offer a quick, convenient service that costs roughly 50% less than you'd buy from a dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys for cars are a single piece of metal with grooves cut into it to fit into a particular lock. These keys will open your locks and begin your vehicle, provided that you haven't replaced them by the remote key or smart key. The only drawback to using traditional keys is that it needs to be physically inserted into the ignition in order to start the car. If your key from the past is damaged, lost or stolen, you'll have to visit an Gainesville locksmith to have new keys cut from the blank.
Based on the amount of time that has passed since the last time you cut your keys There are many alternatives to pick from when it comes to having another copy. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines, while others are laser-cut with enhanced security features.
Modern keys are equipped with advanced features like encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption ensures that only the right key is used to open your vehicle making it much more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Other security features that prevent theft include transponder chips, which are embedded in the key to connect with your vehicle and allow it to only work when it's within a specific distance of your car.
If you choose to utilize a traditional key your locksmith can create an entirely new key using the standard cutter machine that is available from most hardware stores. This is cheaper than using an electronic key fob or transponder key, and you'll still be able to operate your doors, locks and trunk.
Another option is to have your traditional car key substituted with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. These keys were first introduced in the late 1990s, and are a popular choice for those looking to enhance the security of their vehicles. Laser cut keys typically come with transponder chips that are designed to work only with your specific vehicle. If these chips aren't installed in your vehicle, it will not respond to the signals generated by the key.