Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a standard mechanical key, you should be able to find a replacement at any hardware store for relatively affordable. The key must be programmed either by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to pair them with your car. These types of keys are usually expensive, but some car insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical keys for cars which you insert into the ignition lock cylinder to start your car. If your car has one of these, replacing the key and fob is relatively cheap (if they are lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create a new basic key for less than what you buy from a dealer. You could also ask a neighbor or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys (which are less expensive than factory keys) to cut you a spare and then program it. It is essential to have a spare because modern cars won't start when a key that isn't programmed with the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys are similar to mechanical keys, but they contain an electronic chip inside the base. The chip communicates with the computer system of your vehicle. Your car will accept the code that is on the chip, but will not start if you use another code.
If your spare key has chips it must be programmed by a dealer. They will need to use an equipment that can cut the key and program it. The machines are available at certain dealerships. It is unlikely that a locksmith will have the tools needed to create a key that has a transponder.
Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, particularly when you require an extra. You could try reprogramming your fob yourself if you're only missing the key shank and have a functional replacement fob, but it can be time-consuming and laborious. You're better off contacting an authorized dealer if you've lost both the fob and the key.
Other types of keys for cars require more specific skills to replace. This includes flip keys and smart keys. They are more complicated and typically need to be replaced at the dealership. Key fobs can be operated by a proximity sensor or a spring-loaded door opener.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the last 10 years or so it's likely to use a transponder key system. The keys contain an embedded microchip inside the key itself and an internal receiver in your car that both have been programmed to communicate with one another to start the vehicle.
Transponder keys are a great way of deterring theft, as they require two components to start the car: the transmitter inside the key and the receiver that is connected to the immobilizer. Without both the key and the immobilizer system being present the car will not start and it is not possible to connect hotwire.
These key chips are programmed with a serial number that is unique to the vehicle you own. When the key is inserted into the ignition the serial number is then sent to the immobilizer in the car and verified that it matches up the number, which allows the engine to start. This security feature is only blocked by a specially designed device that can read the chip to match it with a different car.
You'll require a locksmith who has the equipment needed to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships also offer this service, but their overhead makes them more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
Finding a new car key that comes with a chip it can be a complex process. The key must first be cut on a specific machine in order to have the correct tracks in place that can then be programmed to assign the key to your car. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to do it correctly.
Some of the less complicated chip keys can be cloned at a variety of auto parts stores, but you need to know the serial number of the original key to ensure the correct information is programmed into the new key. Many people make the mistake of going to their dealer to have their chip key copied, and end with a bill that is higher than what they need to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, also known as sidewinder keys due to their distinctive winding cuts to the shank of the key, add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. Because it requires specialized equipment to duplicate these keys, they're an excellent deterrent against auto-theft.
car key replacement near me come with built-in chips to stop unauthorised key copying from launching your car. They have a unique code that must be programmed to your car in order to unlock it and begin it. This additional level of security will protect your investment and stop thieves from trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to resell it.
Laser-cut keys differ from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves cut on the key. They also have a thicker key shaft that is an indication that it's not your regular car key. Generally, locksmiths employ a machine known as milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. This kind of tool looks much like a drill bit and is designed to remove metal at extremely precise controlled angles.
These are some of the most secure keys you can buy for your car, as they are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by a locksmith who is a certified dealer. Unlike traditional keys, they're made from a small piece of steel that's cut into a shape and then cut with a laser in the factory. This kind of key is very durable and can endure a lot of wear and tear and is one of the best options to protect your vehicle.
The key can be folded up into the fob, or pop out by pressing a button. Keys like these are commonly used in German automobiles, and offer an extra layer of protection against car thieves. The cylinder is tough and difficult to break into, making it extremely difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock a vehicle.
Smart Keys Keys
In contrast to the traditional single piece of metal, smart keys utilize RFID, or radio-frequency identification to connect with the car. They are equipped with a chip that has an unique code that is encoded on every key. Whenever you unlock your car's doors or open the trunk key, it sends a signal to your car's onboard computer. The computer will then prompt the correct frequency to allow you to start your vehicle.
The chip inside the smart key has several security features to guard it from theft. First the key emits a low-frequency signal that isn't received by any receiver but your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will display an alternative one that's an individual sequence that only your vehicle will recognize. This stops a cyber-savvy criminal from using an external pulse generator to "fool" the system and perform the work for other vehicles.
In addition to locking and opening the car, some smart keys also have additional functions such as storing specific preferences for drivers remote opening windows or the sunroof, among others. These features can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button or, in some instances you can do this by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Certain key fobs can be opened by holding the dead key in a slot or by placing it near an inductive coil on the dashboard. Some even include an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade concealed in the key to allow this.
Replace a smart key requires an appointment with a dealer, who can either purchase the replacement or stock it. The dealer will also have to program the new key to recognize your car. You can also go to a locksmith for your replacement key fob to be programmed and replaced. A locksmith may cost more than the dealer, but they'll be able to complete the job faster and for less.