keys replacement for cars (
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If you have a standard mechanical key it is likely to get a replacement at any hardware store for relatively inexpensive. The key must be programmed by a dealership or locksmith.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit from the dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These kinds of keys are usually expensive, but some car insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy car keys that are solely mechanical, such as the ones you insert into an ignition lock cylinder and turn to start your vehicle. If your car has one of these keys, replacing the key and fob is relatively cheap (if they get
lost car key replacement or stolen).
A locksmith can design an original key for less than you would purchase from a dealership. You could also have someone close to you who knows how to program transponder keys from the aftermarket (which are less expensive than keys made by the factory) cut keys and program them. It is essential to have a spare key because modern cars won't start in the event that the key does have the right chip.
Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, but they have a hidden electronic chip inside the base of their plastic shape that communicates with the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will be able to recognize the code in the chip and accept it, but it will refuse to start if any other code is used.
If the spare key you have has chips it must be programmed by a dealer. You'll need a specific machine to cut the key and program it. The machines are available at specific dealerships, and it is unlikely that a locksmith have the equipment necessary to create a key that has transponder.
It is expensive to replace keys using remotes, especially if require a spare. You could try reprogramming your fob by yourself if you're missing the shank on the key and you have a working replacement fob, however it can be difficult and time-consuming. If you've lost the complete fob and the key however you should seek out a dealer as your best bet.
There are other types of car keys that require a more specific set of skills to replace, for example flip keys and smart keys. They are more complicated and usually have to be replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs have keys that are spring-loaded and fold into the enclosure and opens doors or uses the use of a proximity sensor to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the last 10 years or so it's likely to use transponder keys. These keys contain the microchip as well as an electronic receiver that is programmed to communicate to start your car.
Transponder keys are a fantastic way to discourage theft because they require two parts for the car to be started that is the transmitter (transponder) inside the key and the receiver that is connected to your immobilizer system. The car won't start without the key and immobilizer system.
These key chips have an individual serial number specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is then sent to the immobilizer in the car and verified to match. If it does then the engine will begin. The only thing that could defeat this security feature is a special device that can detect the chip and match it to another car.
You'll have to find a locksmith who has the equipment needed to reprogram your key. Some
car key replacement service dealerships also offer this service, but their overheads make them more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
Finding a new car key with a chip inside it can be a very complicated procedure. The key has to be cut using a specific machine to get the right tracks that can then be used to program the key to your car. It requires specialized software as well as the appropriate key cutter to cut it properly.
Most auto parts stores can copy some of the less complicated chips keys, however you will need to be aware of the serial number of the original key in order to ensure that the correct information is incorporated into the key. Many people make the error of going to their dealer to have a chip key copied, and end up paying more than they have to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred as sidewinder key because of the distinctive winding cut on the key shank. They provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. Keys like these are a great security measure against theft of your vehicle because they require specialized equipment to duplicate.
They also have built-in chips to prevent unauthorized key copying from starting your vehicle. They also typically contain a unique code the key that must be programmed for your particular vehicle to unlock it and start it. This extra layer of security is an excellent way to protect your investment and deter thieves who might be trying to steal your vehicle for parts or sell it.
In terms of design Laser-cut keys are different from mechanical cut keys, as they have less grooves carved out on the key. The shaft of the key is more substantial, which is another indication that this isn't an ordinary car key. Locksmiths usually use milling machines to cut keys. This kind of tool looks much like a drill bit and is designed to cut metal at very precise, controlled angles.
These are the most secure keys you can purchase for your vehicle. They're hard to duplicate and must by cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. They're not like traditional keys. They're made from a small piece of steel that is shaped into a code and then cut with a laser in the factory. This kind of key is extremely robust and can endure a lot of wear and tear and is one of the best options to protect your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it can fold into the fob or pop out with the click of a button. Keys like this are commonly used in German cars and offer an extra layer of security against car thieves. The cylinder is also very robust and difficult to break into, making it very difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock a vehicle.
Smart Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle by using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the traditional single piece of carved metal. This means they come with a tiny chip that contains an encrypted code that is unique to each key. When you open your car's doors, or open the trunk key, it sends a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer. The computer then prompts the appropriate frequency, allowing you to access your car and begin it.
The chip of the smart key comes with a variety of security features that protect against theft. First, the key emits a low-frequency signal which isn't received by any receiver other than your car. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will prompt another one that is a unique sequence that only your car can understand. This prevents a tech-savvy criminal from using an external pulse generator to "fool" the system and make the key work for other vehicles.
Some smart keys offer specific features, like the ability to store preferences for drivers and opening windows remotely, or the sunroof from afar, and many more. These features can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button, or, in certain instances it is as simple as twisting a tiny piece of metal inside the key.
The majority of these key fobs have an unlock button that opens the doors by themselves however some come with an additional method to open them: a slot or holding the dead key close to the dashboard, where it houses an inductive coil which can transfer energy. Some key fobs feature mechanical (fully emergency) key blade inside the key.
Replacing a key with a smart chip usually requires a visit to the dealership, where they will either have the replacement in stock or purchase it for you. They'll also have to program the new key to recognize your car.