Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is more than simply shaping the metal. It is a complex process that guarantees security, functionality and the longevity of keys.
It is not unusual to lose keys to your car, or even have them break into the lock. You'll need an alternative car key to ensure that you are able to drive your car at all times.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips will likely be added to cars that were built in the last 20 years. These chips are tiny microchips in the handle of your key that send signals to the car's onboard computer whenever you use it. The computer onboard examines the serial number digitally of the chip prior to giving the car permission to begin. This stops theft of vehicles since thieves need to know your unique serial number in order to be able to take over it.
The microchip in the key sends a low-level signal the car's receiver. The radio signal activates your microchip which then transmits code to the computer onboard of the car. The car will be able to recognize this code and only allow it to start when the key is the right one. This stops the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of taking cars.
Locksmiths that offer these services can design keys for cars with chips. Some automotive retailers such as AutoZone sell keys with chips. They have a vast selection of keys and can assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your car. They can assist you in programming the chip in your vehicle which is needed to operate the device.
There are also laser cut keys that are more secure than traditional flat keys. They are more secure than traditional flat keys due to having locks that are harder to pick. They can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting equipment, or specialized software. This technology is most commonly found in high-end vehicles but is now accessible on a variety of affordable models.
Another kind of car key that is hard to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. These keys have a black resistor on the key blade that is programmed with one of 15 potential values to prevent them from starting a vehicle that it's not meant to. These keys are costly and require the use of a key programming machine which is only available through certain locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys and vehicles with computers built-in to control the ignition, GM used a system called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a key that has a resistor embedded in it to confirm that the right key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet in black in the middle of a VATS Key is not a smart chip like those found on most modern keys. It's just a block or carbon that is sized to provide an electrical resistance.
GM employed 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and attached the key's blade to ensure that, when the key is turned on the ignition, a coded signal is sent to the module. If the signal matches the signal of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in the starter circuit will activate and the engine will begin 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 start to wear out. Every time a key is inserted into the ignition it moves two very small wires inside the ignition, and, over time, the wires can start to break. Once enough of the wires are broken the signal to the module is lost and it won't start the car.
The good news is that you can solve this problem yourself at home by decoding your own VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance of a key with the multimeter. You can find the resistance value by placing one of the leads on the prongs made of metal on both sides of your key.
This is a great way to test out a new key and see whether it works in your car. Remove the key from the ignition first before you test it. If not the key could have an incorrect VATS and not work in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs for Keys
Today's key fobs do more than just unlock or start the car. They are also a security device and a security measure against theft, with many of them featuring advanced features that owners might not even know about. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, make sounding sounds to help find your car in a parking space, or even allow you to summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. This is more than you'd imagine from a traditional keychain remote. secret info are more expensive to replace due to their additional functions. They also need to be programmed at the dealer.
had me going charge as much as $100 for one smart fob. It's a steep price to pay for a device that's often tossed around in purses and pockets where it could be damaged, dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures and moisture. Certain automakers have devised methods to protect smart key fobs from common electronic attacks, such as relay attacks. They are typically used in combination with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to gain access to the settings of your vehicle by sending a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.
One method to safeguard the key fob's RFID is to put it in an aluminum case or a dedicated RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. The convenience of the technology is compromised if you must remove your key fob every time you use it from the protective case.
Some newer policies, such as auto club memberships or extended warranties will pay for a replacement fob, or reimburse you if it's lost. You can also avoid paying new-car dealer fees by having your fob copied by a locksmith or hardware store that offers key-fob-cloning services.
For most drivers who want to buy an additional key fob is contingent on how crucial your car's keyless entry and push-button starter functions are. You should always keep a spare fob or key on hand in the event that you misplace yours. Batteries Plus offers a large range of replacement fobs that will fit most cars and trucks. We also offer an efficient, quick service that is approximately 50% less than the price you'd buy from a dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys for cars are a single piece of metal with a series of grooves cut into it to fit into a particular lock. They can open your locks and start your vehicle, provided that you haven't replaced them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only disadvantage of using a 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 an Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one made.
Depending on how long has passed since you last cut your keys there are a variety of options to choose from when it comes to getting another copy made. Certain keys are cut with mechanical machines or lasers, while others are cut with security features that are enhanced.
Some of these advanced features that are included in modern types of keys include encryption as well as other anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or take locks. Transponder chips are another anti-theft feature. They are embedded into the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This makes it only function only when you're within a specific distance.
If you opt to use a conventional, standard key, a locksmith is able to create a new key using a standard key cutter machine that can be found at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than using an electronic key fob or transponder key, and you'll still be able to use your doors, locks and trunk.
Another alternative is to have the traditional car keys replaced with a laser cut version that has a unique pattern. These keys were first introduced in the 1990s and they're a popular choice for those who wish to add extra protection to 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 receive the signals coming from the key and won't start.