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Car Key Cutting Explained

Cutting keys for cars is more than just bending a piece metal. It is a complicated process that guarantees security, function and long-term use of keys.

It is not unusual to lose your car key or even have it break in the lock. To ensure that you can always drive your car you'll need to have a replacement key cut.

Transponder Keys

If your car was built in the past 20 years, it is likely that it has transponder chips. These chips are small microchips in the key's handle that send signals to the car's onboard computer when you are using it. The computer on board scans the digital serial numbers in the chip and only allows the car to start if it's the right one. This helps prevent theft of cars, as thieves would need to know your unique serial number in order to be able to take over it.

The microchip inside your car key transmits a low-level radio signal to the car's receiver. The radio signal activates the microchip, and it then sends an informational code to the car's onboard computer. The car will only begin if it recognizes this code. This will stop the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of theft of cars.

Car keys with chips can be made by locksmiths that offer these services. They are also available at certain automotive stores like AutoZone. They have a vast range of keys and will assist you in selecting the best one for your vehicle. They can also help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is necessary for it to function.

Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys feature a lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick, and they are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting [articlescad.com] machines or with specialized software. This technology is most common in high-end cars however, it is now available on many affordable models.

Another type of car key that is hard to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. These keys feature a black resistor in the key blade that is programmed with one of 15 possible values to prevent the car key cutting near me from starting that it's not intended to. These keys are costly and require the use of a key programming machine which is only available at certain locksmiths.

VATS Keys

Before transponder keys and cars that had computer chips that control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a key with an internal resistor to ensure that the correct key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet that is black that is located in the middle of the VATS Key is not a smart chip like those used on the majority of modern keys. It is simply carbon or a block which is sized to provide an electrical resistance value.

GM used 15 different resistances for VATS pellets and connected them to key blades in a way that when the key is turned in the ignition the key blades transmit a coded message to module. If the signal is in line with the one of the transistors in a VATS pellet then the relay in starter circuit will activate and the engine will start to run. This doesn't make a car safe from burglary however it could delay a thief for at least fifteen to twenty minutes.

Unfortunately, after a lot of use the VATS module in your car could start to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved every time a key is introduced. As time passes the wires could begin to break. If enough wires are damaged the signal is lost to the module and the car won't start.

You can resolve this issue at home yourself by decoding your VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance value of a van key cutting with the multimeter. You can find the resistance value by putting one of the leads on the prongs of metal on both sides of your key.

This is a great way to test a new key and see whether it will work in your car. Remove the key from the ignition first before you test it. In the event that it is not removed the key may have an incorrect VATS and will not work in your vehicle.

Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys

Key fobs today are more than simply unlock and start the car. A lot of them come with advanced features that many owners aren't aware of. They can be used as a security gadget or as a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and emit chirping sounds to assist you in finding your vehicle when you're in a hurry or summon it by pressing the button. That's a lot more than you'd think of from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace because of their extra functions. They also have to be programmed by the dealer.

In fact, some dealers charge up to $100 to replace one smart key fob. That's a lot to pay for a product that spends much of its time snagging around in purses and pockets, which is where it's easily damaged, dropped or exposed to moisture and extreme temperatures. Fortunately certain automakers have come up with ways to protect smart key fobs from common types of electronic attacks like relay attacks. They are typically utilized in conjunction with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to gain access to your vehicle's settings by transmitting an untrue signal from a nearby transmitter.

One way to protect the smart key fob is to store it in a metal case or use a dedicated RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from a case that is protected each time you use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.

Some of the newer policies, such as auto key cutting club memberships or extended warranties, will pay for a replacement fob or reimburse you in the event that it gets lost. You can also save money on new car dealer fees and have your fob cut at a hardware store or locksmith who offers key fob cloning.

The decision of whether to buy a new fob is largely dependent on the importance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. Always keep a spare fob or key on hand in case you lose yours. Batteries Plus offers a large selection of replacement fobs that fit most cars and trucks. In addition, our quick and convenient service costs about 50% less than what you would pay at the dealership.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys for cars are a single length of metal with grooves cut into it to fit in a specific lock. These keys will open your locks and begin your car key blade cutting, provided you don't replace them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only disadvantage of using traditional keys is that it has to be physically inserted into the ignition to start the car. If your key from the past is damaged, lost or stolen, you'll have to visit a Gainesville locksmith to have a new one made from the blank.

Depending on how much time has passed since the last time you had your keys cut There are many options available for you to select from when it comes time to get another copy. Certain keys utilize mechanical cutting car key machines to make copies, while others use laser-cut keys specifically designed with enhanced security features in mind.

Modern keys are equipped with advanced features like encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or open locks. Transponder chips are an additional anti-theft feature. They are incorporated into the key and communicate with your vehicle. This means that it can only work when you're within a certain distance.

If you choose to use a conventional, standard key, a locksmith is able to make a new one with a standard key cutting machine which can be purchased at many hardware stores. This is cheaper than using the key fob or transponder key, and you'll still be able to operate your locks, doors and trunk.

You could also replace your traditional keys for your car with a laser cut version that has an unique pattern. These keys first came out in the 1990s, and they're a popular choice for those looking to add extra protection to their automobiles. The majority of laser cut keys come with transponder chips that are programmed to work only for your specific vehicle. If these chips are not present in your vehicle, they will not respond to the signals sent by the key.