Keys Replacement For Cars
You can get an alternative key for a mechanical one at any hardware shop. The key needs to be programmed either by a locksmith or a dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to connect them to your vehicle. These kinds of keys can be costly however some insurance companies cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical keys for cars such as the ones you insert into the ignition lock cylinder to start your vehicle. If your car is equipped with one of these, it's relatively affordable to replace the key and fob (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create new keys for less than you would buy from a dealer. You can also have a friend or neighbor that is proficient in programming transponder keys from the aftermarket (which are less expensive than factory keys) cut you a spare key and have them programmed. It is important to have a spare key because modern cars will not start if the key does not have the correct chip.
Transponder keys look a lot like mechanical keys, however they contain a hidden electronic chip embedded in the bottom of their plastic form that communicates with your car's computer system. Your car will recognize the code contained in the chip and accept it, but it will not start if a different code is used.
If your spare key has chip, you'll need to bring it to a dealer to get it programmed. They will need to use a special machine to both cut the key and program it. These machines are available only at certain dealerships and it is unlikely that a locksmith have the tools needed to create a key that has transponder.
It's costly to replace keys with remotes, especially if you require a spare. You could try reprogramming your fob on your own if you're just missing the key shank and have a working replacement fob, but it could be time-consuming and laborious. If you've lost the complete key and fob however you should seek out a dealer as the best option.
Other kinds of car keys require more specialized skills to replace. This includes flip keys as well as smart keys. They are more complex and must be replaced by a dealer. Certain key fobs operate by a proximity sensor or a door opener that is spring-loaded.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the past 10 years or so, it's likely to use transponder keys. These keys contain an embedded microchip and a receiver that is programmed to send a signal to start your car.
Transponder keys are an excellent method to deter theft since they require two components for the car to be able to start which is the transmitter (transponder) inside the key and the receiver that is connected to your immobilizer system. The car will not start without both the key and immobilizer system.
These key chips are programmed with a unique serial number that is unique to the vehicle you own. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the serial number is sent to the immobilizer of the car and checked to ensure that it is in line the number, which allows the engine to run. The only thing that can be a hindrance to this security feature is a special device that can read the chip and match it with another vehicle.
When you have a transponder key replaced it is necessary to visit an authorized locksmith who has the necessary equipment to reprogram the key to your vehicle. Some car dealerships also offer this service, however their overheads make them more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
It can be difficult to find a new key with chip. To program your car, the key needs to be programmed using a specific machine. This requires specialized software and the right key cutter in order to do it correctly.
Most auto parts stores can clone some of the simpler chips keys, however you will need to know the serial number from the original key in order to ensure that the correct information is programmed into the key. Many people make the mistake of going to their dealer to have a chip key copied and end with a bill that is higher than what they need to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred to as sidewinder key because of the distinctive winding cut that is made on the key shank. They add an additional layer of security to your car. These keys are a great deterrent to auto theft because they require special equipment to duplicate.
Like transponder keys, they feature built-in chips that block unauthorized key copies from getting into your vehicle. They have a unique code that must be programmed to your vehicle to unlock it and start it. car key replacements of security will safeguard your investment and prevent thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle for parts or to resell it.
In terms of design Laser-cut keys are different from standard mechanical cut keys due to having fewer carved-out grooves on the key. The shaft of the key is thicker, which is another sign that this is not a regular car key. Locksmiths typically use milling machines to cut these keys. This kind of tool looks similar to a drill bit and is designed to remove metal at extremely precise controlled angles.
These are among the most secure keys you can get for your vehicle, since they're extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by the locksmith who is a certified dealer. They're not like traditional keys. They're made from a small piece of steel that is cut into a shape and then cut using a laser at the factory. This type of key is very robust and can be able to withstand a lot of wear and tear which makes it one of the best options for protecting your car.
Depending on the key, it will fold into the fob, or pop out at the touch of the button. These types of keys are typically used in German automobiles and provide an additional layer of protection against car thieves. They also make it extremely difficult for a thief to pick your vehicle or pick-lock it since the cylinder is extremely rugged and difficult to break into.
Smart Keys
Contrary to the conventional single piece of carved metal smart keys utilize RFID, or radio-frequency identification for short, to communicate with the car. They come with a chip with an unique code that is encoded on every key. When you open your car's doors or open the trunk, the key sends a signal to your vehicle's computer onboard. The computer then triggers the appropriate frequency which allows you to open your car and start it.
The chip inside the smart key is equipped with several 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 transmit a different one which is an exclusive code that only your vehicle can comprehend. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using a pulse generator to "fool the system" and perform the work on other vehicles.
Some smart keys offer special features, like storing driver preferences, opening windows remotely or the sunroof from afar and many more. These are accomplished by activating the key's proximity sensor or pressing a button on the key, or, in some instances, twisting a small metal part inside the key.
Certain key fobs can be opened by placing the dead key in a slot or by placing it next to an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Certain key fobs come with mechanical (fully emergency) key blade inside the key.
Replacing a smart lock typically requires a visit the dealer, who will either have the replacement in stock or order it for you. They'll also have to program the new key to recognize your vehicle. But, you can go to a locksmith shop to have your replacement key fob programmed and replaced. A locksmith may cost more than a dealer, but they will do the job faster and cheaper.