Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a basic mechanical key it is likely to purchase a replacement from any hardware store for relatively cheap. The key needs to be programmed by a dealership or locksmith.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These types of keys are typically expensive but some insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
There are still car keys that are purely mechanical, such as the ones you place in an ignition lock cylinder and turn to start your vehicle. If your car uses one of these keys, it's inexpensive to replace the fob and key (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can make you an original key for less than what you purchase from a dealership. You can also ask a neighbor or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys for aftermarket use (which are cheaper than the keys made by the factory) to make you a spare key and then program it. A spare key is crucial because modern cars won't begin when a key is not programmed with the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys look like mechanical keys, but they are actually equipped with an electronic chip embedded in the bottom of their plastic shape that communicates with your vehicle's computer system. Your car will be able to recognize the code in the chip and accept it, however it will not start if any other code is utilized.
If the spare key you have has chips it must be programmed at a dealership. They will need to use a specific machine to cut the key and program it. These machines are only available at specific dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith has the equipment required to create keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, especially if you need an extra. If you only have the key shank missing and an operational replacement fob, you can attempt to reprogramme your fob by yourself. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging. If you've lost the complete fob and the key however it's best to contact a dealer as your best bet.
There are different kinds of car keys that require a more specialized set of skills to replace, such as 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 door opener that is spring-loaded.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the last 10 years or so you're likely to use a transponder key system. The keys are equipped with a microchip and a receiver that is programmed to communicate with start your vehicle.
Transponder keys are a great way of deterring theft since they require two elements to start a car - the transmitter in the key and the receiver attached to the immobilizer. The car won't start without both the key and immobilizer system.
These key chips have an individual serial number specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is sent to the immobilizer of the car and checked to be in line. If it does, the engine will start. The only thing that could defeat this security feature is a device that can read the chip and match it to another car.
You'll need to find a locksmith who has the tools to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service, however their overhead makes them more expensive than an independent locksmith.
It can be difficult to obtain an entirely new key that has a chip. The key must first be cut using a specific machine in order to have the right tracks that can be programmed to assign the key to your car. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to do it correctly.
Many auto parts stores are able to duplicate some of the more basic keys for chips, but you will need to know the serial number of the original key in order to ensure the correct information is programmed into the key. Many people make the mistake of going to their dealer to get a chip key copied and end up paying more than they should.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, also 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 deterrent to auto theft because they require specialized machinery to duplicate.
They also come with built-in chips to stop unauthorized key copying from starting your car. They also usually come with a unique code on the key, which needs to be programmed to your specific car in order to allow it to be opened and started. This additional level of security will protect your investment, and deter thieves from attempting to steal your car for parts or to resell it.
Keys cut with lasers differ slightly from mechanically cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves that are carved on the key. They also have a thicker key shaft that is an indication that it's not your regular car key. Locksmiths usually use a milling machine to cut keys. It's akin to a drill, and it's designed to cut metal with precise angles.
These are the safest keys you can buy for your vehicle. They are difficult to duplicate and can only be done be cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. They're not made using traditional keys. Instead, they are made of a tiny piece of steel that is shaped into a specific code at the factory, and then cut using laser. This type of key can be able to withstand a great deal of wear and tear and is one of the best options to protect your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it will either fold into the fob or be released with the click of a button. These types of keys are commonly used in German cars and offer an additional layer of security against car thieves. They also make it difficult for a thief to pick or pick-lock your car because the cylinder is extremely rugged and difficult to break into.
Smart Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the conventional single piece of carved metal. They come with a chip with a unique code, which is encoded on every key. Whenever you unlock your car's doors or open the trunk the key transmits a signal to your car's onboard computer. The computer then will prompt the appropriate frequency to allow you to start your car.
The smart key's chip also includes a variety of security features to guard against theft. The key emits an extremely low-frequency signal, which will only be detected by your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal it will send another one that is unique and only your car can understand. This prevents a tech-savvy criminal from using an external pulse generator to "fool" the system and create the key function for other vehicles.
Some smart keys have specific features, like saving preferences for drivers and opening windows remotely, or the sunroof from afar and many more. car key replacements can be done by activating the key fob's proximity sensor, pressing a button on the key itself, or, in some cases, twisting a small metal piece inside the key.
Certain key fobs can be opened by placing the dead key in a slot, or by placing it next to an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Some even include an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade hidden in the key to allow this.
Replacing a smart lock requires an appointment with a dealer, where they can order the replacement or stock it. The dealer will also need to program the new key to identify your car. But, you can go to a locksmith shop to have your new key fob programmed and replaced. Locksmiths will cost more than dealers, but they will do the job quicker and for less.