Keys Replacement For Cars
You can buy an alternative key for a mechanical one at any hardware store. However, the key will need to be programmed by a locksmith or dealership.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit from the dealer to pair them with your car. These types of keys can be costly however some insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase mechanical car keys which you insert into the ignition lock for your vehicle to start. If your vehicle is equipped with one of these, it's relatively cheap to replace the fob and key (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create the basic key for you at a less cost than what you would buy from the dealership. You can also ask a neighbour or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys (which are less expensive than factory keys) to cut you a spare and program it. It is essential to have a spare since modern cars won't be able to start when a key that isn't programmed with the correct chip is used.
Transponder keys look a lot like mechanical keys, however they have a hidden electronic chip in the base of their plastic shape that communicates with your vehicle's computer system. Your vehicle will recognize the code contained in the chip and accept it, but it will not start if another code is used.
If your spare key has chips, it will need to be programmed by a dealer. You'll need an equipment that can cut the key and program it. These machines are only available at certain dealerships and it is unlikely that a locksmith have the equipment needed to create a key that has a transponder.
It's expensive to replace keys with remotes, particularly if you require an extra. You can try reprogramming your fob by yourself if you're missing the key shank and have a functioning replacement fob, however it can be time-consuming and laborious. If you've lost your entire fob and the key however you should seek out a dealer as the best option.
There are other types of keys for cars that require a more specific set of skills to replace, like flip keys and smart keys. They are more complicated and are usually replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs have an electronic key that folds into the enclosure and opens a door or is operated by the use of a proximity sensor to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the recent 10 years or so it's likely to have a transponder key system. The keys contain a microchip within the key itself as well as the car's receiver that both have been programmed to communicate with one another to start the car.
Transponder keys can be an excellent method of preventing theft since they require two elements to start the car: the transmitter in the key, and the receiver connected to the immobilizer. The car will not start without both the key and the immobilizer system.
These key chips have a unique serial number for your vehicle. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the serial number is sent to the immobilizer of the car and verified that it matches up and allows the engine to run. This security feature can only be defeated by a special device that reads the chip to match it with another car.
You'll need to find a locksmith that has the tools to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships offer this service, however they are typically more expensive than a independent locksmith due to their overhead.
vehicle key replacement isn't easy to get an original key that comes with chip. To program your car, the key has to be programmed on a specific machine. It requires specialized software as well as the right key cutter to do the job correctly.
Certain of the more basic 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 that the proper information is being programmed into the new key. Many people make a mistake by going to their dealer for the clone of a chip key only to end up paying high costs.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also known as a sidewinder keys due to the distinctive winding cut on the shank of the key. They add an additional layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great security measure against theft of your vehicle because they require specialized equipment to duplicate.
Like transponder keys, they feature built-in chips that prevent unauthorized key copies from getting into your vehicle. They also come with a unique code on the key, which needs to be programmed for your particular vehicle to allow it to be opened and started. This additional layer of security is a great option to protect your investment and deter thieves who might be trying to steal your vehicle to make parts or sell it.
In terms of design laser-cut keys are different from standard mechanical cut keys due to having smaller grooves that have been carved out of the key. They also have a larger key shaft, which is a good indication that it's not your typical car key. Locksmiths typically use a machine called milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. This kind of tool looks much like a drill bit and is designed to remove metal with extremely precise and controlled angles.
These are the most secure keys that you can purchase for your vehicle. They're hard to duplicate and must by cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. They're not created using traditional keys. Instead, they are made from a small piece steel that is cut into a specific code at the factory, and then cut using the laser. This type of key is extremely durable and is able to endure a lot of wear and tear which makes it one of the best options for protecting your vehicle.
The key can be folded into the fob, or it can be released by pressing a button. Keys like these are commonly used in German cars, and provide an extra layer of security against car thieves. They also make it difficult for thieves to pick your vehicle or pick-lock it because the cylinder is extremely rugged and hard to break into.
Smart Keys Keys
In contrast to the traditional single piece of carved metal, smart keys use RFID, or radio-frequency identification to connect with the car. They are equipped with a chip that has an unique code that is encoded on every key. The key transmits a message to the computer onboard of your vehicle whenever you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer then will prompt the correct frequency to allow you to start your car.
The chip of the smart key is equipped with several security features that protect it from theft. First, the key emits a low-frequency signal that can't be detected by any other receiver, not even your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal it will send an additional signal that is an exclusive code that only your car can understand. This stops a cyber-savvy criminal from using an external generator to "fool" the system and create the key function for other vehicles.
In addition to locking and opening the car, some smart keys also have additional functions such as storing specific preferences for drivers remote opening windows or the sunroof, among others. These are accomplished by activating the key's proximity sensor, pressing a button on the key itself or, in certain instances, twisting a small metal piece inside the key.
Most of these key fobs come with a button that can unlock the doors on their own However, some key fobs have an additional method to open them by a slot or placing the dead key near the dashboard, where it is able to hold an inductive coil that can transfer energy. Some even have an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade concealed in the key to activate this.
Replace a smart key requires a trip to the dealer, who can either request the replacement or have it on hand. They'll also have to program the new key to recognize your car. But, you can visit a locksmith to have your replacement key fob programed and replaced. Locksmiths will cost more than dealers, but they will do the job quicker and at a lower cost.