Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting the car key is more than just bending metal. It is a complex process that guarantees security, functionality and the longevity of keys.
It is not unusual to lose your car key or even have it break in the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your car, you will need to have a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the last 20 years, it is likely to have a transponder chip. key cut service are located in the key's handle and transmit a signal your vehicle's onboard computers when you turn the key. The onboard computer detects the digital serial number within the chip and allows the car to start if it is the correct one. This stops thieves from hijacking your vehicle 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 microchip, and it then sends an informational code to the car's onboard computer. The car will only begin when it recognizes the code. This prevents the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of theft of cars.
Car keys with chips can be made by a locksmith that offers these services. Some car dealers, like AutoZone sell keys with chips. They have a huge range of keys and can assist you in finding the best one for your car. They can assist you in programming your vehicle's chip, which is required for the device to function.
You can also purchase laser cut keys, which are more secure than traditional flat keys. They are more secure than flat keys because they have locks that are more difficult to pick. They can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting equipment, or with specialized software. This type of technology is typically found in high-end vehicles but is now accessible on a variety of affordable models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is another kind of key that is difficult to duplicate. The keys are black with a resistor on the key blade that is programmed with one of fifteen possible values to stop them from starting a vehicle that it's not meant to. They are expensive and require a key programming machine, which is only available at a few locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the days of transponder keys as well as cars equipped with computer chips to control the ignition of the car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses an ordinary key with a pellet of resistance embedded in it to confirm that the correct key is used to start the car. The black VATS pellet located in the middle of the VATS key isn't an electronic chip as used in modern smart keys, it is simply a block of carbon properly sized to carry a specific electrical resistance value.
GM used 15 different resistances for VATS pellets and connected them to key blades in a way that when the key is turned on, the key blades transmit a coded message to module. If it matches the resistance value of the transistor in the VATS pellet the relay in the starter circuit is activated and the engine begins to run. This doesn't make a car safe from burglary, but it can delay a thief for at least 15 to 20 minutes.
After a long period of use the VATS module could begin to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved every when the key is inserted. As time passes the wires can start to break. Once enough of the wires break then the signal to the module gets lost and it won't start the car.
You can solve this issue at home yourself by decoding your VATS key. It's not hard to determine the resistance of a key using a multimeter. All you need to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter onto the metal prongs that are sticking out on both sides of the key, then examine the display of your ohm meter to find out the resistance of your key.
This is a great method to test out a new key and check whether it will work in your car. Just be sure to remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, or else the new key may have an incorrect VATS value and may not function in your car.
Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys
Today's key fobs do more than just unlock or start cars. Many of them have advanced features that many owners aren't aware of. They can be employed as a security tool or a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and make chirping sounds to aid in locating your car in a lot or summon it by pressing the button. This is a lot more features than you obtain from a traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their additional functions. They also need to be programmed by the dealer.
In fact, some dealers will charge upwards of $100 to replace one smart key fob. That's a lot to pay for a product that spends much of its time snagging around in purses and pockets, where it can be easily damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme moisture and temperatures. Fortunately, some automakers have developed methods to shield smart key fobs from the most common types of electronic attacks like relay attacks. They are usually paired with remote start hacks that gives thieves access to your vehicle's settings by the transmission of a fake signal by another transmitter nearby.
To secure a smart card, you can store it in a metal case or even an RFID blocking case. This will stop the transmission of these signals. The ease of use of this technology is compromised if you have to take your key fob out every time you need to use it from the protective case.
Fortunately, some newer car-insurance policies and auto club memberships and extended warranty coverage will cover the cost of replacing a fob or reimburse you for the lost fob. You can also save money on new-car dealership charges and get your fob cut at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store that offers key-fob cloning services.
For most drivers, the decision to purchase an additional key fob is contingent on how important your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. In key cutting car should have an extra fob or key in case in case you lose yours. Batteries Plus offers a large range of replacement fobs that fit most cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and easy service is about 50% less than the price you would spend at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys are a single length of metal with grooves cut into it to fit into a particular lock. They can unlock your locks and open the car, as long as you don't swap them out for a smart key or remote key. The only disadvantage of using a traditional car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your key from the past is damaged, lost or stolen, you'll need to visit an Gainesville locksmith to have an alternative one cut from the blank.
There are several options to choose from depending on how long it has been since you've cut your keys. Some keys use mechanical cutting machines to make copies, while others use laser-cut keys designed with enhanced security features in mind.
Some of these modern features that are included in modern-day keys include encryption as well as other security mechanisms. Encryption makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or open locks. Other security features that prevent theft include transponder chips that are embedded into the keys to communicate with your vehicle and allow it to only work when it's within a specific distance of your vehicle.
If you choose to make use of a traditional key, your locksmith can make the new key using the standard cutter machine that is available from a variety of hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or a transponder key, and you'll still be able to operate your locks, doors and trunk.
Another alternative is to get the traditional car keys replaced with a laser cut version that has a unique pattern. These keys were first introduced in the early 1990s and are a popular choice for those looking to safeguard 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 present in your vehicle, it will not respond to the signals sent by the key.