Keys Replacement For Cars
If you own a basic mechanical key you should be able to purchase a replacement from any hardware store for inexpensive. This key will need to be programmed by a dealership or locksmith.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit to the dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These kinds of keys are typically expensive, but some car insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
There are still car keys that are only mechanical, like the ones you put into an ignition lock cylinder, and turn to start your car. If your car uses one of these keys, it's affordable to replace the key and fob (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can cut an entry level key for you at a cheaper price than you would buy from a dealership. You can also ask a neighbor or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys for aftermarket use (which are cheaper than the keys made by the factory) to cut you a spare and have it programmed. A spare key is crucial because modern cars won't start when a key that isn't programmed with the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys resemble mechanical keys, but contain an electronic chip within the base. This chip communicates with the computer system of your vehicle. Your vehicle will recognize the code in the chip and accept it, however it will not start if another code is used.
If your spare key has a chip, you'll need to take it to a dealership to get it programmed. The dealership will need an equipment that is specifically designed for cutting and programming the key. These machines are available only at certain dealerships and it is unlikely that a locksmith will have the equipment necessary to create a key with transponder.
It's costly to replace keys using remotes, particularly if you require a spare. You could try reprogramming your fob by yourself if you're missing the shank of the key and have a functional replacement fob, however it can be difficult and time-consuming. If you've lost the complete fob and key but you're not sure, a dealer is your best bet.
There are other kinds of car keys that require a specialized set of skills to replace, like flip keys and smart keys. These are more complex and are usually replaced at the dealership. Certain key fobs operate by proximity sensors or a spring-loaded door opener.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys will likely be used in vehicles built in the last 10 years. The keys have the microchip as well as the receiver is programmed to communicate to start your car.
Transponder keys are an excellent method to deter theft since they require two components for the car to start which is the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer device in place, the car won't start and it is not possible to hotwire.
Key chips have an individual serial number specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is sent to the immobilizer inside the car and verified to match. If it does, the engine will start. This security feature is only defeated by a special device that can read the chip to match it with a different car.
When you have a transponder key replaced it is necessary to visit an locksmith with the equipment needed to reprogram the keys to your vehicle. Some car dealerships offer this service as well but they are typically more expensive than a independent locksmith because of their expenses.
It can be difficult to find a new key with chip. To program your car, the key must be programmed on a special machine. This requires specific software and the right key cutter to do it correctly.
Some of the less complicated chip keys can be copied at the majority of auto parts stores but you must know the serial number of the original key to ensure the correct information is encoded into the new key. Many people make the error of going to their dealer to get a chip key copied, and end in paying more than 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 provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. Because it takes specialized machinery to duplicate these keys, they're a great deterrent against auto-theft.
Like transponder keys, they feature embedded chips that stop unauthorized key copies from getting into your car. They have a unique number that needs to be programmed into your car in order to unlock it and start it. This extra level of security will safeguard your investment, and deter thieves from trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to resell it.
Keys cut with lasers differ slightly from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves carved out on the key. The shaft of the key is larger, which is a indication that this isn't a regular car key. Locksmiths usually use milling machines to cut these keys. This type of machine looks like a drill and is designed to remove metal at extremely precise, controlled angles.
They are the most secure keys you can buy for your vehicle. They are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be done be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. They're not made with traditional keys. Instead, they're made of a tiny piece of steel that is cut to form a code in the factory, and then cut using the laser. This type of key is very durable and is able to endure the rigors of wear and wear which makes it one of the best options for protecting your vehicle.
The key can be folded up into the fob, or be removed by pressing a button. Keys like these are commonly used in German cars and offer an extra layer of protection against car thieves. They also make it extremely difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock your car, as the cylinder is extremely durable and is difficult to break.
Smart Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle by using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the traditional single piece of carved metal. This means that they are equipped with tiny chips that contain an encrypted code that is unique to each key. The key sends a message to the computer onboard of your vehicle every time you open the doors or open the trunk. The computer will then signal the appropriate frequency to allow you to start your vehicle.
The chip in the smart key comes with a variety of security features that protect it from theft. The key emits an extremely low-frequency signal that can only be detected by your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will prompt an alternative one that's an individual sequence that only your vehicle can recognize. key fob replacement stops a tech-savvy criminal from using a pulse generator in order to "fool the system" and make the key work on other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, certain smart keys come with additional features like storing specific driver preferences remote opening windows or the sunroof, and many more. These features can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob, pressing a button or, in some instances, by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Some key fobs can be opened by holding the dead key in a slot or by placing it near an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Some key fobs have a mechanical (fully emergency) key blade in the key.
Replace a smart key requires an appointment with a dealer, who will either order the replacement or stock it. They'll also need to program the new key to recognize the car you are driving. You can also go to an locksmith to get your replacement key fob to be programmed and then replaced. Locksmiths may charge more than a dealer, but they'll likely be able to do the job faster and less expensively.