Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a basic mechanical key, you should be able to purchase a replacement from any hardware store for relatively cheap. However, this key will have to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit to the dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These kinds of keys are typically expensive however some insurance companies cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical keys for your car such as the ones you put into an ignition lock for your vehicle to start. If your vehicle is equipped with one of these keys, it's affordable to replace the fob and key (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can make you an original key for less than what you buy from a dealer. You can also ask a neighbour or friend who is able to program transponder keys (which are cheaper than the keys made by the factory) to cut you a spare and have it programmed. 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 look a lot like mechanical keys, however they have a hidden electronic chip in the base of their plastic design that communicates with the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will be able to recognize the code in the chip and accept it, however it will not start if another code is used.
If the spare key you have has chip, you'll need to bring it to a dealership to get it programmed. They'll require a special machine to both cut the key and then program it. These machines are only available at specific dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith will have the equipment needed to create an engraved key using a laser transponder.
Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, especially when you require a spare. If cost of a car key replacement have only the key shank missing and a functioning replacement fob you could try reprogramming your fob by yourself. However, it can be time-consuming and complicated. You're better off going to an expert if you've lost both the key and the fob.
There are other types of keys for cars that require a specialized set of skills to replace, such as flip keys and smart keys. They're more complicated and need to be replaced by a dealer. Some key fobs have a spring-loaded key that folds into the enclosure and opens doors or is operated by proximity sensors to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the recent 10 years or so it's likely to use transponder keys. These keys are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key itself and an internal receiver in your car which are both programmed to communicate with each other to start the vehicle.
Transponder keys are a great way to discourage theft because they require two parts in order for the car to start - the transmitter (transponder) inside the key and the receiver that is connected to your immobilizer system. The car will not start without the key and the immobilizer system.
The key chips are programmed with a unique serial number that is unique to your vehicle. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the serial number is sent to the immobilizer in the car and checked to ensure that it is compatible, it will then allow the engine to start. The only thing that can be a hindrance to this security feature is a special device that is able to detect the chip and match it to another vehicle.
When you have a transponder key replacement, you'll need to visit a locksmith that has the necessary equipment to reprogram the keys to your car. Some car dealerships provide this service, but their overheads make them more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
Getting a new car key with a chip inside it is a complex procedure. The key must first be cut using a particular machine to ensure that it has the proper tracks which can later be programmed to assign the key to your car. This requires specialized software and the right key cutter to be done correctly.
Some of the simpler chip keys can be cloned at a variety of auto parts stores, but you need to be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure that the correct information is encoded into the new key. Many people make the error of going to their dealer to have their chip key copied, and end up paying more than they need to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred as sidewinder key because of the distinctive winding cut on the shank of the key. They provide an additional layer of security to your car. These keys are a great security measure against theft of your vehicle because they require specialized machinery to duplicate.
They also come with built-in chips to prevent unauthorized key copying from starting your vehicle. They also typically have a unique code on the key that must be programmed to your specific vehicle to unlock it and start it. This extra layer of security is a fantastic method to safeguard your investment and deter thieves who may be trying to steal your vehicle for parts or sell it.
Laser-cut keys differ from mechanically cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves carved out on the key. The shaft of the key is thicker, which is another sign that this is not a standard car key. Locksmiths generally make use of a milling tool to cut these types of keys. This kind of machine appears much like a drill bit and is designed to cut metal at extremely precise, controlled angles.
They are the most secure keys you can buy for your vehicle. They are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. They're not made using traditional keys. Instead, they're made of a tiny piece of steel that's shaped according to form a code in the factory, and then cut with a laser. This type of key is extremely durable and is able to be able to withstand a lot of wear and tear and is one of the best options to protect your car.
The key can be folded in the fob, or it can be removed by pressing the button. The keys are typically used in German automobiles, and offer an extra layer of protection against car thieves. They also make it very difficult for a thief to pick or pick-lock your vehicle because the cylinder is extremely rugged and is difficult to break.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the traditional single piece carved metal. This means they come with tiny chips that contain an encrypted code that is unique to each key. When you open your car's doors or open the trunk key, it transmits a signal to your vehicle's computer onboard. The computer then will prompt the appropriate frequency to allow you to start your car.
The chip of the smart key includes a variety of security features to guard against theft. First the key emits a very low-frequency signal that isn't received by any receiver other than your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will send another one that is an exclusive code that only your car can understand. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using an electronic pulse generator to "fool the system" and make the key work on other vehicles.
Some smart keys have specific features, like saving preferences for drivers and opening windows remotely, or the sunroof via remote, and many more. These features can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button or, in certain instances, by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Certain key fobs are opened by placing the dead key in a slot, or by placing it in proximity to an inductive coil on the dashboard. Some even have an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade that is hidden inside the key to allow this.
Replacing a smart lock requires an appointment with a dealer, where they can order the replacement or have it on hand. They'll also need to program the new key to recognize your vehicle. You can also go to a locksmith for your replacement key fob to be programmed and replaced. A locksmith may cost more than a dealer, but he or she can do the job faster and cheaper.