Keys Replacement For Cars
You can purchase the replacement key for a mechanical one at any hardware shop. However, the key will have to be programmed by a locksmith or dealership.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit from the car dealer to be paired with your car. These types of keys are typically expensive but some insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy car keys that are only mechanical, the kind that you put into an ignition lock cylinder and turn to start your vehicle. If your car has one of these, replacing the key and fob is fairly inexpensive (if they get lost or stolen).
A locksmith can design an original key at a lower cost than what you pay at a dealership. You could also have your neighbor or a friend who is proficient in programming aftermarket transponder keys (which are less expensive than factory keys) cut keys for you and have them programmed. It is essential to have a spare since modern cars won't be able to start if a key without the correct chip is used.
Transponder keys are like mechanical keys but contain an electronic chip in the base. This chip communicates with the computer system in your car. Your car will recognize the code that is on the chip, but will not start if you use another code.
If the spare key you have has chips, it will need to be programmed at a dealership. The dealership will require a special machine for both cutting and programming the key. These machines are only available at specific dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith has the equipment required to create a laser-cut key with a transponder.
It's expensive to replace keys using remotes, especially if you require a spare. If you have only the key shank missing, and a functioning replacement fob you could try reprogramming your fob on your own. However, it can be time-consuming and complicated. You're better off contacting an authorized dealer if you've lost both the fob and the key.
There are other kinds of keys for cars that require a more specific set of skills to replace, like flip keys and smart keys. These are more complex and typically need to be replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs feature keys that are spring-loaded and fold into the enclosure and opens doors or is operated by proximity sensors to open and start your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the last 10 years or so you're likely to use transponder keys. These keys contain the microchip as well as the receiver is programmed to send a signal to start your vehicle.
Transponder keys are a fantastic method to deter theft since they require two parts for the car to be started - the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver that is connected to your immobilizer system. The car will not start without the key and the immobilizer system.
The key chips are programmed with a serial number that is unique to the vehicle you own. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the serial number is then sent to the immobilizer in the car and verified that it matches up and allows the engine to start. This security feature is only overcome by a specific device that reads the chip and match it with another car.
You'll need to find a locksmith that has the equipment to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service, but their overhead makes them more expensive than an independent locksmith.
Getting a new car key with a chip inside it can be a complicated procedure. The key needs to be cut on a specific machine to get the right tracks that can then be programmed to assign the key to your car. This requires special software and the correct key cutter to get it done properly.
Most auto parts stores can duplicate some of the more basic chips keys, but you will need to know the serial number of the original key in order to ensure that the correct data is encoded into the key. Many people make the error of visiting their dealer to have their chip key copied and end with a bill that is higher than what they should.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also known as sidewinder key because of the distinctive winding cut on the key shank. They add an additional layer of security to your car. Keys like these are a great deterrent to auto theft because they require specialized equipment to duplicate.
Like transponder keys. They have built-in chips that block unauthorized key copies from starting your vehicle. They also have a unique code on the key, which must be programmed for your particular vehicle in order to unlock and start it. This extra layer of security will protect your investment and stop thieves from trying to steal your vehicle in exchange for parts or to resell it.
In terms of their design laser-cut keys are different from conventional mechanical cut keys due to having fewer carved-out grooves on the key. The shaft of the key is more substantial, which is another indication that this isn't a regular car key. Locksmiths typically use a machine called a milling tool to cut these types of keys. This kind of machine appears much like a drill bit and is designed to remove metal with extremely precise and controlled angles.
These are the safest keys that you can purchase for your vehicle. They are difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. They're not made using traditional keys. Instead, car key replacements are made of a tiny piece of steel that is cut to form a code in the factory before being cut using laser. This type of key is extremely durable and is able to be able to withstand many years of wear and wear which makes it one of the best options to protect your car.
Depending on the key, it will fold in the fob, or pop out by pressing the button. These kinds of keys are commonly used in German automobiles and provide an additional layer of protection against car thieves. They also make it very difficult for a thief to pick or pick-lock your car, as the cylinder is extremely durable and is difficult to break.
Smart Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the conventional single piece of carved metal. They are equipped with a chip that has a unique code, which is encoded on every key. The key sends a signal to the onboard computer in your vehicle every time you open the doors or open the trunk. The computer then will prompt the right frequency that allows you to start your vehicle.
The chip inside the smart key comes with a variety of security features to protect it from theft. The key emits a low-frequency signal, which can only be detected by your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will display a different one that is an exclusive sequence that only your vehicle can understand. This prevents a tech savvy criminal from using an electronic pulse generator to "fool the system" and perform the work on other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, certain smart keys also have additional functions like storing specific driver preferences remotely opening windows, the sunroof, and more. These features can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob, pressing a button or, in some instances it is as simple as twisting a tiny piece of metal inside the key.
Most key fobs have an unlock button that opens the doors for themselves, but some have another method of opening them: a slot or holding the dead key near an area on the dashboard, where it houses an inductive coil that can transfer energy. Some even come with an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade that is hidden inside the key to activate this.
Replacing a smart lock requires an appointment with a dealer, who can either request the replacement or have it in stock. They'll also need to program the new key to recognize your car. You can go to a locksmith shop to have your replacement key fob programed and replaced. Locksmiths will cost more than a dealer but he or she can do the job faster and at a lower cost.