Ten Cut Car Keys That Really Improve Your Life
Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is a lot more than simply shaping an object of metal. It is a sophisticated process that guarantees security, efficiency, and longevity of the keys.
It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car, or have them break in the lock. To ensure that you can always drive your vehicle you'll need a new key cut.
Transponder Keys
If your car was manufactured in the last 20 years, it is likely to have a transponder chip. These chips are small microchips in the key's handle that send signals to the car's onboard computer when you use it. The onboard computer reads the digital serial number inside the chip and allows the car to start if it's the right one. This prevents thieves from taking over your vehicle because they'd have to know the unique serial number.
The microchip in the key transmits a low-level signal the car's receiver. The radio signal activates your microchip that then transmits the instructions to the onboard computer of the car. The car will only start if it recognizes this code. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.
Locksmiths who offer these services can make keys for cars with chips. They are also available at certain automotive stores, such as AutoZone. These stores have a wide range of keys and will help you get the right one for your vehicle. They can assist you in programming your car's chip which is needed for the device to function.
There are also laser Cut Car Keys keys that are more secure than flat keys. They are more secure than traditional flat keys because they have a lock that is harder to pick. They are only duplicated with expensive laser key cutting equipment, or specialized software. This type of technology is typically found in high-end vehicles, however it is now being used in many affordable models of automobiles as well.
Another kind of car key that's difficult to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. The keys are black with a resistor on the blade of the key that is programmed with one of 15 potential values to prevent them from starting a car that it's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a specific key programming machine that can only be found at some locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the advent of transponder keys and automobiles equipped with computer chips to control the ignition of a car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a standard key with a pellet of resistance embedded in it to confirm that the correct key is used to start the car. The black VATS pellet located in the middle of the VATS key isn't a chip like those present in modern smart keys. It is simply a piece of carbon properly sized to carry a specific electrical resistance value.
GM employed 15 different resistance values for the VATS pellets and connected them to the key's blade, so that when the key is turned in the ignition, a coded signal is transmitted to the module. If the signal is in line with the resistance value of the transistor in the VATS pellet the relay in the starter circuit is activated and the engine starts to run. This does not make a car safe from burglary, but it can delay a thief for at least 15 to twenty minutes.
After a prolonged period of usage, the VATS module can start to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved every time the key is placed. Over time, the wires may start to break. Once enough of the wires are broken, the signal to the module is lost and the module won't be able to start the car.
You can resolve this issue at home by decoding your VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance value of a key by using a multimeter. You can determine the resistance value by placing one of the leads on the prongs made of metal on both sides of your key.
This can also be a good method to test a new key to see if 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 car.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs today do more than simply unlock or start the vehicle. They are also used as a security device and theft deterrent, with many of them incorporating advanced features that owners may not even be aware of. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and emit chirping sounds to assist you in finding your car in a lot, or allow you to activate it by pressing a button. This is a lot more functionality than you obtain from a traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace because of their extra functions. They also need to be programmed at the dealer.
Some dealers charge up to $100 for one smart fob. It's a high price for a product that is often jostled in purses and pockets where it can be damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity. Fortunately certain automakers have come up with ways to protect smart key fobs from the most common types of electronic attacks like relay attacks. These are typically combined with a remote start hack which allows thieves to access your vehicle's settings by the transmission of a fake signal another transmitter close to.
One method of protecting the smart key fob is to keep it in a metal case or an RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from its protective case every time you need to use it undermines the convenience of the technology.
Some of the newer policies, such as auto club memberships and extended warranties will cover the cost of getting a new car key cut replacement fob or reimburse you if it gets lost. You can also avoid paying new-car dealer fees by having your fob copied at a locksmith or hardware store that offers key-fob-cloning.
For most drivers who are buying an extra key fob will depend on how crucial your car's keyless entry and push-button start functions are. It is always advisable to keep an extra key or fob in case you lose yours. If you have to purchase a replacement, Batteries Plus has a large selection of fobs to fit the majority of cars and trucks. In addition, our quick and convenient service costs about 50% less than the price you would spend at a dealership.
Traditional Keys
The traditional car key is one piece of metal with a series of grooves carved into it. These grooves are designed to fit certain locks. These keys will unlock your locks and start your car, assuming you don't replace them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only disadvantage of using an old-fashioned car key is that you need to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your car key is damaged or lost it is necessary to visit an Gainesville locksmith to get a new one made.
There are several options to choose from depending on how long it's been since you've had your keys cut. Certain keys are cut with mechanical machines and others are laser-cut with added security features.
Some of these advanced features that come with modern-day keys include encryption and other security mechanisms. Encryption makes sure that only the correct key can be used to open your vehicle, making it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick locks. Transponder chips are another security feature that prevents theft. They are incorporated into the key and communicate with your vehicle. This means that they only effective only when you're within certain distance.
If you decide to use a traditional standard key, a locksmith is able to create a new one with a standard key cutting machine that can be found at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or transponder, and you will still be able to use your trunk locks, trunk locks, and doors.
You could also replace your traditional keys to your car with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. The first time these keys were introduced was in the late 1990s, Cut Car Keys and they're a popular choice for those looking to provide extra security to their vehicles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chips that are programmed to work only with your vehicle. If these chips aren't present in your vehicle, it will not respond to the signals generated by the key.
