Keys Replacement For Cars
You can buy a replacement key for a mechanical key in any hardware shop. The key must be programmed either by a locksmith or a dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit from the dealer for the keys to be paired with your vehicle. These types of keys can be costly but some insurance companies cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase car keys that are purely mechanical, like the ones you put into an ignition lock cylinder and then turn to start your car. If your vehicle is equipped with one of these, it's relatively inexpensive to replace the fob and key (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can design an original key for less than what you pay at a dealership. You can also have someone close to you who is proficient in programming transponder keys that are made for the aftermarket (which are cheaper than keys made by the factory) cut keys and have them programmed. It is essential to have a spare because modern cars won't start when a key is not programmed with the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, but they contain a hidden electronic chip inside the base of their plastic form that communicates with your vehicle's computer system. Your car will accept the code in the chip, but will not start if you try to use another code.
If the spare key you have has chips that is programmed, it will have to be programmed by a dealer. They'll require a special machine to both cut the key and then program it. These machines are only available at certain dealerships. It is unlikely that a locksmith would have the tools needed to create a key with a transponder.
Keys with remotes are expensive to replace, especially when you require an extra. If you have just the key shank missing and a functioning replacement fob you can attempt to reprogramme your fob by yourself. However, it could be time-consuming and complicated. If you've lost the entire fob and the key but you're not sure you should seek out a dealer as the best option.
There are different kinds of keys for cars that require a more specific set of skills to replace, such as flip keys and smart keys. These are more complex and typically need to be replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs have a spring-loaded key that folds into the enclosure and opens a door, or they're operated with the use of a proximity sensor to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the past 10 years or so, you're likely to use transponder keys. The keys contain a microchip within the key itself and a receiver in your car that are both programmed to communicate with one another to start the car.
Transponder keys are a great way to discourage theft because they require two components for the car to start - the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer device present, the car will not start and it is not possible to hotwire.
These key chips have an unique serial number that is specific to your vehicle. When the key is inserted into your ignition, the serial number is sent to the immobilizer in the car and then verified to make sure it matches up the number, which allows the engine to run. The only thing that could defeat this security feature is a device that can detect the chip and match it to another car.
You'll have to find an locksmith with the equipment to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships offer this service too, but they are typically more expensive than a independent locksmith because of their expenses.
The process of getting a new car keys that has a chip in it can be a complex procedure. To program your car, the key needs to be programmed on a specific machine. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to do the job correctly.
The majority of auto parts stores can clone some of the simpler chips keys, but you'll need to know the serial number of the original key to ensure that the correct information is encoded into the key. Many people make the mistake of going to their dealer for an exact copy of a chip key and end up paying inflated costs.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred to as a sidewinder key due to the distinctive winding cut that is made on the shank of the key. They provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. They are a fantastic protection against auto theft since they require specialized machinery to duplicate.
Like transponder keys, they have built-in chips that prevent unauthorized key copies from getting into your vehicle. They also usually contain a unique code the key, which needs to be programmed for your particular vehicle to unlock and start it. This additional layer of security is a fantastic option to protect your investment and deter thieves who may be trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to sell it on.
Keys cut with lasers differ slightly from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves that are carved on the key. They also have a larger key shaft which is an excellent indication that it's not a regular car key. Locksmiths usually use milling machines to cut keys. It's akin to a drill bit and it's designed to cut metal at precise angles.
They're among the most secure keys you can purchase for your car, because they're very hard to replicate and can only be cut by the dealer or a licensed locksmith. They're not made using traditional keys. Instead, they're constructed from a small piece of steel that is cut into a specific code at the factory before being cut using laser. This type of key can withstand a lot wear and tear and is among the best choices for protecting your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it can fold into the fob or pop out at the touch of a button. These keys are used in German cars, and provide an extra layer of security against car thieves. The cylinder is also very tough and difficult to break into, making it very difficult for a thief pick or pick-lock the car.
Smart Keys
In contrast to the traditional single piece of metal, smart keys make use of RFID, or radio-frequency identification for short, to communicate with the car. This means that they are equipped with a tiny chip that contains an encrypted code that is unique to each key. The key transmits a message to the onboard computer in your vehicle every time you open the doors or open the trunk. The computer will then prompt the correct frequency to allow you to start your car.
The chip in the smart key has several security features to guard it from theft. The key emits a low-frequency signal, which can only be detected by your vehicle. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will prompt another one that is an exclusive sequence that only your vehicle can understand. This will stop a criminal with a high-tech background from using an external pulse generator to "fool" the system and make the key work for other vehicles.
Some smart keys have special features, like saving preferences for drivers, opening windows remotely or the sunroof remotely and many other. These functions can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button or, in some cases, by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
automotive car key replacement can be opened by placing the dead key in a slot or by placing it near an inductive coil on the dashboard. Some key fobs feature an electronic (fully emergency) key blade that is inside the key.
Replacing a smart key typically requires a visit the dealer, who will either have the replacement on hand or make it available for you to purchase. They'll also have to program the new key to recognize your vehicle. You can also visit a locksmith for the replacement key fob to be programmed and replaced. Locksmiths will cost more than a dealer but he or she can do the job faster and cheaper.