Keys Replacement For Cars
You can get the replacement key for a mechanical one at any hardware shop. However, this key will have to be programmed by a locksmith or dealership.
Smart keys are more complex and require a trip to the dealer to connect them to your vehicle. They are costly however, many insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical keys for your car, the ones that you put into the ignition lock for your vehicle to start. If your car uses one of these keys, it's inexpensive to replace the key and fob (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can cut the basic key for you at a cheaper cost than what you would pay in a dealership. You could also ask a neighbor or friend who is able to program transponder keys (which are cheaper than the keys made by the factory) to make you a spare key and then program it. A spare key is crucial since modern cars won't be able to start if a key without the correct chip is used.
Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, however they are actually equipped with an electronic chip inside the base of their plastic shape that communicates with your vehicle's computer system. The car will accept the code that is on the chip, but it will not start if you try to use another code.
If the spare key you have has chips, you'll have to bring it to a dealership to have it programmed. They'll require a specific machine to cut the key and program it. These machines are only available at specific dealerships, and it's not likely that a locksmith has the equipment needed to create a laser-cut key with a transponder.
Keys with remotes are expensive to replace, especially if you need a spare. If you have only the key shank missing, and a functioning replacement fob you can try to reprogramme your fob on your own. However, it can be time-consuming and difficult. It's better to go to an authorized dealer if you've lost both the fob and the key.
Other types of car keys require more specialized skills to replace. They include flip keys as well as smart keys. These are more complex and usually have to be replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs have keys that are spring-loaded and fold into the enclosure and opens doors, or they're operated with the use of a proximity sensor to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are likely to be found in cars that were constructed in the past 10 years. These keys contain the microchip as well as an electronic receiver that is programmed to send a signal to start your car.
Transponder keys are a fantastic way to discourage theft because they require two components for the car to start - the transmitter (transponder) inside the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. The car won't start without both the key and immobilizer system.
These key chips are programmed with a unique serial number that is unique to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is transmitted to the immobilizer of the car and checked to match. If it does, the engine will start. The only thing that could defeat this security feature is a special device that can detect the chip and match it with another car.
If you need a transponder key replacement, you'll need to visit a locksmith that has the necessary equipment to reprogram the keys to your vehicle. Some car dealerships provide this service too, but they are typically more expensive than a private locksmith due to their costs.
It isn't easy to get an entirely new key that has chip. The key must first be cut using a particular machine in order to have the right tracks that can be used to program the key to your car. This requires special software and the correct key cutter in order to get it done properly.
The majority of auto parts stores can clone some of the simpler keys for chips, but you must know the serial number from the original key in order to ensure that the correct data is encoded into the key. Many people make the mistake of visiting their dealer to get a chip key copied, and end up paying more than they should.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, also known as sidewinder keys because of their distinctive winding cuts to the shank of the key they add a layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great deterrent to auto theft because they require special equipment to duplicate.
They also have built-in chips to stop the copying of keys by unauthorized people from starting your car. They also usually contain a unique code the key, which needs to be programmed to your specific vehicle to allow it to be opened and started. This extra layer of security will protect your investment and stop thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle in exchange for parts or to resell it.
In terms of their design, laser-cut keys are slightly different from conventional mechanical cut keys, as they have smaller grooves that have been carved out of the key. They also have a thicker key shaft which is an excellent indication that it's not a regular car key. Locksmiths usually employ milling machines to cut keys. It's akin to a drill bit, and is designed to remove metal with precise angles.
They are the most secure keys you can purchase for your vehicle. They're hard to duplicate and can only be done be cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. They're not made with traditional keys. Instead, they're constructed from a small piece of steel that is shaped to form a code in the factory, and then cut with laser. This type of key is able to withstand a lot wear and tear, and is among the best options for protecting your vehicle.
The key can be folded up into the fob, or it can pop out by pressing a button. Keys like this are used extensively in German cars and offer an extra layer of security against car thieves. spare car key replacement is also very tough and difficult to break into, which makes it difficult for a thief pick or pick-lock the car.
Smart Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the traditional single piece carved metal. This means they have a small chip that has an encrypted code that is unique to each key. Whenever you unlock your car's doors, or open the trunk, the key sends a signal to your car's onboard computer. The computer then prompts the right frequency which allows you to open your car and start it.
The chip of the smart key has several security features to guard it from theft. First, the key emits a low-frequency signal which isn't picked up by any receiver but your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will send a different one which is an exclusive code that only your vehicle can comprehend. This will stop a tech-savvy criminal from using a pulse generator in order to "fool the system" and perform the work on other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, certain smart keys have special features such as storing specific preferences for drivers remotely opening windows, the sunroof, and more. These features are accessible by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button or, in certain instances it is as simple as twisting a tiny piece of metal inside the key.
Most key fobs feature an unlock button that opens the doors for themselves, but some have an additional way to open them with a slot or by placing the dead key in a spot on the dashboard where it holds an inductive coil that is able to transfer energy. Some key fobs feature an electronic (fully emergency) key blade inside the key.
Replacing a key with a smart chip typically requires a visit the dealership, who will either have the replacement in stock or purchase it for you. They'll also need to program the new key to recognize your vehicle. However, you can also visit a locksmith to get your replacement key fob programmed and replaced. Locksmiths may charge more than the dealer, but they'll be able to finish the job faster and at a lower cost.