Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a basic mechanical key, you should be able to purchase a replacement from any hardware store for inexpensive. The key needs to be programmed either by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit to a dealer for the keys to be paired with your vehicle. They can be expensive however, many insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical keys for cars which you insert into the ignition lock for your vehicle to start. If your car is equipped with one of these keys, replacing the fob and key is fairly inexpensive (if they're lost or stolen).
A locksmith can cut an entry level key for you at a cheaper cost than what you'd buy from the dealership. You can also have someone close to you who knows how to program transponder keys that are made for the aftermarket (which are cheaper than keys from factory) cut keys and program them. It is essential to have a spare since modern cars won't be able to start when a key is not programmed with the correct chip is used.
Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, but they are actually equipped with an electronic chip embedded in the bottom of their plastic design that communicates with the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will recognize the code that is on the chip, but it will not start if you choose another code.
If your spare key has chips, you'll have to take it to a dealership to get it programmed. They will need to use an equipment that can cut the key and program it. These machines are only available at certain dealerships, and it's not likely that a locksmith has the equipment required to create keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
It is expensive to replace keys with remotes, particularly if you require an extra. If you only have the key shank missing and an operational replacement fob, you could try reprogramming your fob by yourself. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging. If you've lost your entire fob and the key but you're not sure you should seek out a dealer as your best bet.
There are different kinds of keys for cars that require a specialized set of skills to replace, like flip keys and smart keys. These are more complicated and must be replaced by a dealer. Some key fobs are operated by proximity sensors or a spring-loaded door opener.
Transponder Keys
If your car is built in the last 10 years or so it's likely to use a transponder key system. These keys are equipped with a microchip in the key itself as well as a receiver in your car that are both programmed to communicate with each other to start the car.
Transponder keys are a great method to deter theft since they require two parts in order for the car to be started that is the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. The car will not start without 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 sent to the immobilizer in the car and verified to match. If it does, the engine will start. The only thing that could be a hindrance to this security feature is a device that is able to read the chip and match it to another vehicle.
You'll have to find an locksmith with the tools to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships offer this service, but their overhead makes them more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
It isn't easy to get a new key with a chip. The key has to 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 as well as the appropriate key cutter to do it properly.
Some of the simpler chip keys can be cloned at most auto part stores, but you must be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure the proper information is being programmed into the new key. Many people make the mistake of visiting a dealer to get a chip key copied, and end in paying more than they need to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, referred to as sidewinder keys because of their distinctive winding cuts on the key shank, add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great security measure against theft of your vehicle because they require special equipment to duplicate.
They also come with built-in chips to prevent the copying of keys by unauthorized people from starting your vehicle. They have a unique number that must be programmed into your car to unlock it and begin it. This additional layer of security is a great option to protect your investment and deter thieves who may be trying to steal your car 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 cut on the key. The shaft of the key is thicker, which is another sign that this is not an ordinary 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.
These are the safest keys you can purchase for your vehicle. They're hard to duplicate and can only by cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. In contrast to traditional keys, they're made from a small piece of steel which is cut into a shape and then cut with the laser in the factory. This type of key can withstand a lot wear and tear and is among the best options to protect your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it will either fold into the fob, or pop out at the touch of the button. Keys like this are used extensively in German automobiles and provide an additional layer of security against car thieves. They also make it extremely difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock your vehicle since the cylinder is extremely durable and hard to break into.
Smart Keys
In contrast to the traditional single piece of metal, smart keys utilize RFID, also known as radio-frequency identification to connect with the car. They come with a chip with a unique code, which is encoded on each key. car key replacement near me transmits a message to the computer onboard of your vehicle each time you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer then prompts the appropriate frequency which allows you to open your car and start it.
The chip in the smart key is equipped with several security features to protect it from theft. First, the key emits a very low-frequency signal that can't be received by any receiver other than your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will send another one that is a unique code that only your car can understand. This prevents a tech savvy criminal from using a pulse generator in order to "fool the system" and make the key work on other vehicles.
In addition to locking and opening the car, some smart keys come with additional features such as storing particular driver preferences remotely opening windows, the sunroof, and more. These are accomplished by activating the key fob's proximity sensor by pressing a button on the key or, in some instances, by twisting a tiny metal component inside the key.
The majority of these key fobs have an unlock button that opens the doors for themselves, but some have an additional method to open them by a slot or placing the dead key close to the dashboard, where it is able to hold an inductive coil that can transfer energy. Some even have an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade hidden in the key to allow this.
Replacing a smart lock usually requires a visit to the dealership, 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 go to an locksmith to get your replacement key fob to be programmed and then replaced. A locksmith may cost more than dealers, however, they can complete the task faster and cheaper.