Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting the car key is more than just bending metal. It is a complex process that ensures security, functionality and durability of keys.
It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car, or even have them break into the lock. To ensure that you are able to always drive your vehicle you'll need to have a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the last 20 years, it is likely to have a transponder chip. These chips are tiny microchips located in the handle of your key that send a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer when you are using it. The computer in the car scans the digital serial numbers within the chip and allows the car to start if it is the correct one. This prevents car thieves from taking over your vehicle since they'd need to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip in the key sends a low-level signal the receiver within the car. This radio signal activates the microchip, which transmits a instructions to the onboard computer of the car. The car will be able to recognize this code and will only allow it to start if the key is the correct one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods to steal cars.
Locksmiths who offer these services can create keys for cars with chips. They are also available at certain automotive stores, such as AutoZone. They have a vast range of keys and will assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your car. They can assist you in programming your vehicle's chip which is needed for the device to function.
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 they are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or with specially designed software. This technology is most commonly found in luxury cars but is now accessible on many affordable models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is another type of key that's difficult to duplicate. The keys contain a resistor that's black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed with one of a variety of values to stop it from starting a vehicle it's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a specific key programming device that can only be found at a few locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the advent of transponder keys as well as cars equipped with computer chips to control the car's ignition, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses a key with a resistor embedded in it to verify that the correct key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet in black that is located in the middle of the VATS Key isn't an electronic chip that is like those present on modern keys. It is simply a block or carbon that is sized to provide an electrical resistance.
GM used 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and connected them to the key's blade so that when the key is turned on 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 will start to run. This isn't a way to make a car theft proof however it will delay the thief by at minimum 15 to 20 minutes.
Unfortunately, after a lot of use, the VATS module in your car can begin to wear out. Every time a key is inserted into the ignition it moves two tiny wires inside the ignition, and with time, the wires can begin to break. When enough wires are broken, the signal to the module gets lost and it won't start the car.
The good news is that you can solve this issue yourself by decoding your own VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance value of a key with a multimeter. All you need to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter on the prongs made of metal sticking out on both sides of the key, and then look at the display of the ohmmeter to find out the resistance value of your key.
This is a great method to test a new key and determine whether it will work in your car. Be sure to remove the key from the ignition before you begin testing it, as the new key may have an incorrect VATS value and not function in your car.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs today do more than just unlock or start a car. A lot of them come with advanced features that a lot of owners are not aware of. They can be used as a security device or a theft deterrent. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, emit chirping sounds to help you locate your vehicle in a parking lot and even allow you to call your vehicle by pressing a button on your smartphone. This is more than you could ever expect from the traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their extra functions. They also require to be programmed by a dealer.
Some dealers charge up to $100 for a single smart fob. It's a steep price to pay for a device that's frequently tossed around in pockets and purses where it can be damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. car key cutting and programming have devised methods to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. They are typically used in combination with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to access the settings of your vehicle by sending a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.
To protect a smart fob to protect it, you can place it in a metal casing or put it in an RFID blocking case. This will block the transmission of these signals. However, the necessity of removing the key fob from its protective case every time you use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.
Fortunately, some of the newer car insurance policies such as auto club memberships and extended warranty coverage will pay for the cost of replacing a fob or reimburse you for a lost fob. You can also avoid paying new-car dealer fees by having your fob copied by a locksmith or hardware store that offers key-fob-cloning services.
The decision of whether to purchase an additional fob is dependent on the significance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. In any case, you should always have an extra fob or key in case in case you lose it. Batteries Plus offers a large selection of replacement fobs that fit most cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and efficient service is 50% less than the price you would pay at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys for cars are a single piece of steel that has grooves cut into it to fit in a specific lock. These keys will unlock your locks and open the car, as long as you haven't changed them out to a smart or remote key. The only drawback of using traditional keys is that it has to be physically placed into the ignition to start the car. If your traditional car key is lost or broken you'll need to visit the Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one made.
You have a few options to choose from depending on how long it's been since you were able to cut your keys. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines, while others are laser-cut with security features that are enhanced.
Some of these modern features that come with the modern types of keys include encryption and other security mechanisms. Encryption makes sure that only the correct key can be used to start your vehicle, making it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick locks. Other anti-theft features include transponder chips that are incorporated into the key to connect with your vehicle and allow it to only function when it's within a certain range of your car.
If you opt to use a conventional, standard key, a locksmith could create a new key with a standard key cutting machine which can be purchased at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or a transponder, and you can still operate your trunk, locks, and doors.
Another alternative is to get your standard car key replaced with a laser cut version that has a unique pattern. These keys were introduced in the 1990s and are a popular option for those who wish to safeguard their vehicles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chip that is programmed to only work with your vehicle. If like this aren't present in your car, it won't respond to the signals emanating from the key, and will not start.