Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is much more than just shaping an object of metal. It is a complex process that guarantees security, efficiency, and longevity of the keys.
It is not uncommon to lose your car keys or even have them break into the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your vehicle you'll need to have a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips will likely be fitted in vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. These chips are small microchips located in the key's handle that transmit a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer whenever you use it. The onboard computer scans the digital serial numbers in the chip and only allows the car to start if it's the right one. This prevents thieves from stealing your car since they'd need to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip in the key transmits a low-level signal the car's receiver. This radio signal activates your microchip which then transmits instructions to the onboard computer of the car. The car will be able to recognize this code and will only allow it to start if the key is the right one. This prevents the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of taking cars.
Locksmiths who offer these services can make keys for cars with chips. Some auto dealers like AutoZone sell keys with chips. These stores have a wide range of keys and will help you get the right one for your vehicle. They can assist you in programming the chip in your vehicle, which is required to use the device.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys have a lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick, and they can only be duplicated using expensive laser key cutting equipment or specialized software. This type of technology is typically found in luxury vehicles, but it is now available in a variety of affordable cars as well.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different type of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys have a black resistor on the blade of the key that is programmed with one of fifteen possible values to stop the car from starting that it's not meant to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a special key programming device that can only be found at some locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the advent of transponder keys as well as cars with built-in computer chips to control the ignition of a car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a standard key with a pellet of resistance embedded in it to confirm that the correct key is used to start the vehicle. The black VATS pellet in the center of the VATS key isn't an electronic chip as found on modern smart keys. It is simply a block of carbon that is sized appropriately to have an exact electrical resistance.
GM used 15 different resistance values for the VATS pellets. They attached the key's blade to ensure that, when the key is turned in the ignition, a coded signal is sent to the module. If the signal matches that of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in starter circuit will activate and the engine will start to run. This doesn't make a car safe from theft however it can delay the thief by at minimum 15 to 20 minutes.
After a long period of use the VATS module could begin to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved each when the key is introduced. Over time the wires can begin to break. If enough wires are damaged, the signal is lost to the module and the car won't begin.
The good news is that you can fix this issue yourself by decoding your own VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance of a key by using the multimeter. You can determine the resistance value by placing one of the leads on the metal prongs on both sides of your key.
This method is also a great way to test the new key to determine whether it works in your car. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. If not the key could have an incorrect VATS, and will not function in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs for Keys
Key fobs today do more than just unlock or start the car. Many of them have advanced features that many owners aren't aware of. They can be used as a security device or a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door remotely and emit chirping sounds to help you locate your vehicle in a parking lot, or allow you to activate it by pressing a button. This is more functionality than you can obtain from a traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due to their extra functions. They also need to be programmed at the dealer.
In fact, some dealers will charge up to $100 to replace one smart key fob. It's a steep price for a product that is often tossed around in pockets and purses where it could be damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Fortunately certain automakers have come up with ways to protect smart key fobs from the most common types of electronic attacks like relay attacks. These are often employed in conjunction with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to gain access to the settings of your vehicle by sending false signals from a nearby transmitter.
One way to protect the key fob's RFID is to put it in an aluminum case or an RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. The convenience of the technology is compromised if have to take your key fob out every time you use it from the protective case.
Some newer policies such as auto club memberships and extended warranties, will pay for an additional fob or reimburse you in the event that it is lost. You can also save money on dealership charges and get your fob cut at a hardware store or locksmith who offers key fob cloning.
For the majority of drivers, the decision to purchase a new key fob depends on the importance of your car's keyless entry and push-button starter functions are. Always keep a spare key or fob in case you misplace yours. And if you need to purchase a replacement, Batteries Plus has a vast selection of fobs for the majority of cars and trucks. Additionally, we provide an efficient, quick service that is roughly 50% less than the price you'd pay at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys are a single piece of steel that has grooves cut into it to fit in a specific lock. These keys can unlock your locks and start your car, provided you haven't replaced them with the remote key or smart key. The only disadvantage of using the traditional car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional key is lost, damaged or stolen, you'll need to visit a Gainesville locksmith to get an alternative one cut from the blank.
There are a variety of options to select from based on how long it has been since you've were able to cut your keys. key cutting car utilize mechanical cutting machines to produce copies, whereas others use laser-cut keys that have been made with security features in mind.
Some of these features that come with modern keys include encryption as well as other anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption ensures that only the right key is used to start your vehicle which makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Transponder chips are an additional security feature that prevents theft. They are incorporated into the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This means that they only work only when you're within a specific distance.
If you choose to use a traditional, standard key, a locksmith can make a new one with a standard key cutting machine that can be found at many hardware stores. This is cheaper than a key fob, or a transponder, and you will still be able to use your trunk, locks, and doors.
You can also replace your standard car keys with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. The first keys of this kind were released in the early 1990s and are an increasingly popular choice for those looking to protect their automobiles. Laser cut keys typically contain transponder chips that are designed to work only with your specific vehicle. If these chips aren't present in your vehicle it won't be able to respond to the signals emanating from the key, and will not start.