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Car Key Cutting Explained

Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal. It is a complicated procedure that ensures security, functionality and long-term use of keys.

It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car or have them break in the lock. To ensure that you are able to always drive your vehicle you'll need a new key cut.

Transponder Keys

If your car was constructed within the last 20 years, it's likely that it has transponder chips. These microchips are located in the handle of the key and transmit a signal the onboard computers in your vehicle when you turn the key. The onboard computer reads the digital serial number within the chip and allows the car to start if it's the correct one. This prevents car thieves from hijacking your vehicle because they'd have to be aware of the unique serial number.

The microchip in the key transmits a low-level signal the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip, which then transmits an encoded code to the car's onboard computer. The car will be able to recognize this code and only allow it to start when the sidewinder key cutting is the correct one. This will stop "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.

Car keys with chips can be created at locksmiths that offer these services. Some auto dealers like AutoZone offer them. These stores have a large variety of keys, and can assist you in finding the right one for your car. They can help you program the chip in your vehicle, which is required to use the device.

You can also get laser cut keys that are more secure than flat keys. These keys have a lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick, and can only be duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or specially designed software. This technology is more common in luxury vehicles, but it is now available in many affordable models of automobiles as well.

Another kind of key for cars that is hard to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. These keys come with a resistor black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of 15 possible values to prevent it from starting a vehicle 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.

Keys to VATS

Before transponder keys or cars with computer chips built in to control the ignition, GM used a system called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a standard key that has a resistor pellet embedded inside it to confirm that the correct key is used to start the car. The VATS pellet that is black located in the middle of a VATS Key isn't a smart chip like those found on most modern keys. It is merely a block or carbon that is sized to have an electrical resistance.

GM employed 15 different resistance values for the VATS pellets. They connected them to the key's blade, so that when the key is turned on the ignition the coded signal is sent to the module. If the signal matches that of the transistor in a VATS pellet then the relay in starter circuit will be activated and the engine will begin to run. This does not make a car burglar-proof however, it can deter a thief for at least 15 to twenty minutes.

After a lot of usage the VATS module could start to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition move each when the key is placed. Over time the wires can begin to break. Once enough wires are broken, the signal is lost to the module and the car will not start.

The good news is that you can solve this issue at home by decoding your own VATS key cut service. It's not hard to determine the resistance of a key using the multimeter. All you have to do is place one of the leads of your ohm meter on the prongs made of metal sticking out on both sides of the key. Then look at the display of the ohmmeter to find out the resistance of your key.

This method is also a good way to test the new key to determine if it will work in your vehicle. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. If not the key may have an incorrect VATS and not work in your vehicle.

Smart Key Fobs for Keys

Key fobs today can do more than just unlock or start the car. They often have advanced features that many owners are not aware of. They can be employed as a security tool or as a theft deterrent. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, emit sounding sounds to help locate your car in a parking space, or even allow you to summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. This is a lot more functionality than you get from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due to their extra functionality. They also need to be programmed at the dealer.

In fact, some dealers will charge upwards of $100 to replace one smart key fob. It's a steep price for a product that is often jostled in pockets and purses where it could be damaged, thrown or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Certain automakers have devised methods to protect smart key fobs from common electronic threats, including relay attacks. These are often combined with a remote start hack which allows thieves to access your vehicle's settings through the transmission of a fake signal by another transmitter close to.

To safeguard a smart fob, you can store it in a casing made of metal or put it in an RFID blocking case. This will block the transmission of these signals. The convenience of the technology is compromised if you have to take your key cutting cost fob out every time you take it out of the protective case.

Fortunately, some newer car-insurance policies and auto club memberships and extended warranty coverage will pay for the cost of a replacement or reimburse you for the lost fob. You can also avoid paying new-car dealer fees by having your fob copied by a locksmith or hardware retailer that provides key-fob cloning.

The decision to buy an additional fob is based on the importance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. It is always advisable to keep a spare key or fob in case you misplace yours. Batteries Plus offers a large selection of replacement fobs that will fit on most cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and efficient service is 50% less than what you would spend at the dealership.

Traditional Keys

Traditional car keys are a single length of steel that has a series of grooves cut into it to fit a specific lock. These keys can unlock your locks and start your vehicle, provided that you don't replace them with a remote key or smart key. The only drawback of using a traditional key is that it must be physically put into the ignition in order to start the vehicle. If your traditional car key is damaged or lost you'll need to visit the Gainesville Locksmith to have a new one created.

Depending on how long has passed since you last cut your keys, there are several different options available for you to pick from when it comes time to get another copy made. Certain keys are cut using mechanical machines and others are laser-cut with enhanced security features.

Modern keys come with advanced features, such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or open locks. Other security features that prevent theft include transponder chips that are embedded in the key to communicate with your car and make it only function when it's within a specific range of your car.

If you decide to utilize a traditional key your locksmith can create an entirely new key using a standard cutter machine, which can be purchased from most hardware stores. This is less expensive than using a automotive key cutting fob or a transponder key, and you'll still be able to operate your locks, doors and trunk.

Another option is to have your traditional car key replaced with a laser cut version that has a unique pattern. These keys first came out in the 1990s, and they're a popular choice for people who want to provide extra security to their vehicles. Laser cut keys are typically equipped with transponder chip that is programmed to work only with your vehicle. If the chips aren't present in your car it won't be able to respond to the signals emanating from the key and won't start.