Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a basic mechanical key it is likely to find a replacement at any hardware store for relatively cheap. The key needs to be programmed by a locksmith or a dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These kinds of keys are typically expensive but some insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
There are still car keys that are purely mechanical, like the ones you insert into an ignition lock cylinder, and turn to start your car. If your car uses one of these, it's cheap to replace the fob and key (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create the basic key for you at a less price than you would pay at the dealership. You can also have someone close to you who is proficient in programming aftermarket transponder keys (which are less expensive than keys from factory) cut keys for you and then program them. Getting a spare is important because modern cars won't begin when a key that isn't programmed with the correct chip is used.
Transponder keys are like mechanical keys, but they have an electronic chip hidden inside the base. The chip communicates with the computer system in your car. Your car will recognize the code in the chip and accept it, but it will not start if a different code is used.
If the spare key you have has chips, you'll have to take it to a dealership to get it programmed. They will need to use a specific machine to cut the key and program it. These machines are only available at certain dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith has the tools needed to make keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
It's costly to replace keys with remotes, particularly if you require an extra. If you have only the key shank missing and a working replacement fob, you could try reprogramming your fob on your own. However, it could be time-consuming and difficult. If you've lost the complete key and fob however you should seek out a dealer as your best bet.
There are other kinds of car keys that require a specialized set of skills to replace, for example flip keys and smart keys. They're more complicated and need to be replaced by a dealer. Certain key fobs operate by proximity sensors or a door opener with a spring loaded mechanism.
Transponder Keys
If your car is built in the recent 10 years or so you're likely to use transponder keys. The keys have a microchip and an electronic receiver that is programmed to communicate to start your car.
Transponder keys are a great way of deterring theft, since they require two components to start the car - the transmitter inside the key and the receiver that is connected to the immobilizer. The car won't start without both the key and the immobilizer system.
The key chips come with a unique serial number for your vehicle. When the key is inserted into the ignition the serial number is then sent to the immobilizer of the car and then verified to make sure it is compatible, it will then allow the engine to start. The only thing that could be a hindrance to this security feature is a device that is able to detect the chip and match it to another car.
If you need a transponder key replacement you'll need to go to a locksmith that has the equipment needed to reprogram the key into your car. Some car dealerships provide this service, however their overhead makes them more expensive than an independent locksmith.
It isn't easy to find an entirely new key that has chip. The key has to be cut on a specific machine to ensure that it has the right tracks that can be programmed to assign the key to your car. This requires specialized software and the right key cutter to do it correctly.
Certain of the more basic chip keys can be cloned at most auto part stores, but you need to be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure the proper information is being encoded into the new key. Many people make a mistake going to their dealer in search of the clone of a chip-key and end up paying inflated costs.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, referred to as sidewinder keys due to their distinctive winding cuts in the key shank provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. Because it requires specialized equipment to duplicate these keys, they're an excellent deterrent against auto-theft.
Like transponder keys, they feature embedded chips that stop duplicate keys from opening your car. They have a unique number that needs to be programmed into your vehicle to unlock it and begin it. This extra layer of security will safeguard your investment and prevent thieves from trying to steal your car for parts or to sell it.
Keys cut with lasers differ slightly from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves cut on the key. They also have a larger key shaft that is an indication that it's not your typical car key. Locksmiths typically use milling machines to cut keys. This machine is similar to a drill bit, and it's designed to cut metal in very precise angles.
These are the safest keys that you can purchase for your vehicle. They are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. They're not like 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 type of key is able to withstand a lot wear and tear and is among the best options to protect your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it will fold in the fob or pop out at the touch of the button. These kinds of keys are commonly used in German cars and offer an extra layer of security against car thieves. The cylinder is also very resistant to breaking into, which makes it difficult for a thief pick or pick-lock a vehicle.
Smart Keys Keys
Unlike the traditional single piece of carved metal, smart keys utilize RFID, or radio-frequency identification for short, to communicate with the car. vehicle key replacement come with a chip with an unique code that is encoded on each key. The key sends a signal to the computer onboard of your vehicle each time you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer will then prompt the correct frequency to allow you to start your car.
The chip of the smart key comes with a variety of security features that protect it from theft. The key emits an extremely 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 a unique sequence that only your vehicle will understand. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using a pulse generator in order to "fool the system" and do the key work on other vehicles.
Some smart keys offer special features, like saving preferences for drivers and opening windows remotely, or the sunroof remotely, and many more. These can be done by activating the key's proximity sensor by pressing a button on the key or, in certain instances, by twisting a tiny metal component inside the key.
Some key fobs can be opened by placing the dead key in a slot or by placing it next to an inductive coil on the dashboard. Some even have an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade hidden in the key to allow this.
Replacing a smart lock requires a trip to the dealer, who will either order the replacement or have it on hand. The dealer will also have to program the new key to identify your vehicle. However, you can also visit a locksmith to get your new key fob programmed and replaced. A locksmith might cost more than the dealer, but they'll be able to do the job more quickly and less expensively.