Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is much more than simply shaping the metal. It is a complex process that guarantees security, function and longevity of keys.
It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car, or even have them break into the lock. You'll need a new car key in order to ensure you can drive your car at all times.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed within the past 20 years, it is likely that it has transponder chips. These microchips are situated in the key's handle and send a signal to the onboard computers in your vehicle when you use the key. The computer in the car examines the serial number digitally of the chip before it allows the car to begin. This stops theft of vehicles since thieves need to know your unique serial number to be able to steal it.
The microchip inside your car keys transmits an low-level radio signal to the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip that then transmits the instructions to the onboard computer of the car. The car will be able to recognize this code and only allow it to start when it is the correct one. This stops the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of theft of cars.
Car keys with chips can be created at locksmiths that offer these services. Some car dealers, like AutoZone offer keys with chips. They have a vast range of keys and will help you get the right one for your car. They can assist you in programming the chip in your vehicle which is needed to operate the device.
You can also purchase laser cut keys, which are more secure than conventional flat keys. They have an cylinder for locking that is much more difficult to pick, and can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting machines or special software. This technology is most commonly found in high-end vehicles however, it is now available on many affordable models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different kind of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys come with a resistor black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of 15 possible values to prevent it from starting a vehicle that's not intended to. These keys are more expensive to buy and require a specific key programming machine that can only be found at some locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the advent of transponder keys and cars equipped with computer chips to control the ignition of the car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses a key with a resistor embedded in it to confirm that the right key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet in black that is located in the middle of the VATS Key isn't a smart chip like those found on most modern keys. It's just carbon or a block that is sized to have an electrical resistance.
GM employed 15 different resistance values for the VATS pellets. They attached them to the blade of the key so that when the key is turned on the ignition a coded signal will be sent to the module. If the signal matches that of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in the starter circuit will be activated and the engine will begin to run. This doesn't make a car secure from burglary however it could delay thieves for at least 15 to twenty minutes.
After a prolonged period of usage, the VATS module can start to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved every time the key is inserted. As time passes the wires could begin to break. Once dig this are broken, the signal is lost to the module and the car will not start.
You can resolve this issue at home yourself by decoding your VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance of a key using the multimeter. All you have to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter onto the prongs made of metal hanging out on both sides of the key, then examine the display of your ohm meter to find out the resistance value of your key.
This can also be a good method to test a new key to determine whether it will work in your car. Make sure you remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, otherwise the new key could be displaying an incorrect VATS value and not function in your car.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs today are more than simply unlock and start the car. They also function as used as a security device and security measure against theft, with many of them featuring advanced features that owners may not even be aware of. They can lock and unlock your door remotely and make chirping sounds to aid in locating your car in a lot, or allow you to call it up by pressing a button. This is a lot more than you could ever imagine from a traditional keychain remote. Unfortunately, all that added features can mean that smart key fobs could be more expensive to replace than traditional keychain remotes, and they usually require programming by the dealer.
In fact, some dealers will charge upwards of $100 to replace one smart key fob. It's a huge price for a device that is often jostled in purses and pockets where it can be damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Fortunately, some automakers have developed ways to protect smart key fobs from the most common kinds of electronic attacks, such as relay attacks. They are typically utilized in conjunction with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to gain access to your vehicle's settings through a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.
One method to safeguard a smart key fob is to keep it in an aluminum case or an RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from its protective case every time you want to make use of it is a hassle and a detriment to the efficiency of the technology.
Some newer policies like auto club memberships as well as extended warranties, will cover the cost of a replacement fob, or reimburse you if it gets lost. You can also save money on new car dealer fees and have your fob cut at a hardware store or locksmith which offers key-fob cloning.
The decision to buy a new fob is largely dependent on the significance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. You should always keep a spare key or fob on hand in the event that you misplace yours. If you do need to buy a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a wide selection of fobs for most cars and trucks. Plus, our quick and convenient service costs about 50% less than the price you'd pay at a dealership.
Traditional Keys
The car key of old is made of a single piece of steel with a series grooves carved into it. These grooves are designed to fit specific locks. These keys can open your locks and start your car, provided you haven't replaced them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only drawback of using the traditional key is that it has to be physically inserted into the ignition in order to start the car. If your car key is lost or broken, you will need to visit the Gainesville locksmith to get a new one made.
Depending on how much time has passed since the last time you got your keys cut There are many options to choose from when it comes time to get another copy made. Some keys use mechanical cutting machines to produce copies, while others employ laser-cut keys that have been designed with enhanced security features in mind.
Modern keys come with advanced features such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or take locks. Other security features that prevent theft include transponder chips, which are embedded into the keys to connect with your vehicle and allow it to only work when it's within a certain distance of your car.
If you choose to use a traditional, standard key, a locksmith is able to make a new one using a standard key cutter machine which can be purchased at the majority of hardware stores. This is less expensive than using an electronic key fob or transponder key, and you'll be able to operate your locks, doors and trunk.
You can also replace your standard keys for your car with a laser cut version with a unique pattern. These keys were introduced in the 1990s and have become a popular option for those who wish to safeguard their vehicles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chips programmed to work only with your vehicle. If these chips aren't installed in your vehicle it won't receive the signals from the key and won't start.