A Peek At The Secrets Of Cut Car Key
Car Key Cutting Explained
cutting car key the car key is more than just bending a piece metal. It is a complex process that guarantees security, efficiency and the longevity 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 car you'll need to have a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are likely be installed in cars that were built in the last 20 years. These chips are small microchips located in the key's handle that transmit a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer when you use it. The computer in the car scans the digital serial numbers in the chip and only allows the car to start if it is the correct one. This prevents thieves from hijacking your vehicle because they'd have to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip inside your car key transmits an low-level radio signal to the receiver inside the car. The radio signal activates microchip, and it then sends a code to the car's onboard computer. The car will only begin when it recognizes the code. This will stop "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.
Locksmiths that offer these services can make keys for cars that contain chips. They are also available at a few automotive stores like AutoZone. These stores have a large range of keys and can assist you in choosing the best one for your vehicle. They can assist you in programming your vehicle's chip, which is required to use the device.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys are more secure than traditional flat keys due to having a lock that is harder to pick. They are only duplicated with expensive laser key cutting machines, or with specialized software. This technology is most commonly found in high-end vehicles, but is now available on many affordable models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is another kind of key that is difficult to duplicate. They come with a resistor black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of fifteen possible values to stop it from starting a vehicle it's not intended to. They are expensive and require a key programming machine, which is only available at certain locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the days of transponder keys and cars with built-in computer chips to control the ignition of the car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a key with an embedded resistor to confirm that the right key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet in black in the middle of a VATS Key isn't a smart chip as used on the majority of modern keys. It is simply carbon or a block which is sized to provide an electrical resistance.
GM employed 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets and attached them to key blades so that when the key is turned on, a coded message is sent to module. If it matches 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 secure from theft however it can delay the theft by at minimum 15 to 20 minutes.
Unfortunately, after a lot of use, the VATS module in your car could start to wear out. The two wires that connect the ignition are moved every time the key is introduced. Over time, the wires may start 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 fix this issue at home by decoding your VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance of a key by using a multimeter. All you have 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. Then read the ohm meter's display to determine the resistance of your key.
This is a great opportunity to test a new key and determine if it works in your vehicle. Just be sure to remove the key from the ignition before you begin testing it, or else the new key could be displaying an incorrect VATS value and may not function in your car.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs today can do more than simply unlock and start the vehicle. They often have advanced features that a lot of owners are unaware of. They can be used as a security device or as a theft deterrent. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, emit sounding sounds to help find your car in a parking space, or even allow you to call your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. This is more than you could ever think of from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their additional functions. They also have to be programmed at the dealer.
Some dealers charge up to $100 for one smart fob. This is a significant amount to pay for a device that spends much of its time snagging around in pockets and purses, where it is easily dropped, damaged or exposed to extreme moisture and temperatures. Fortunately there are automakers who have developed ways to protect smart key fobs from the most common kinds of electronic attacks, such as relay attacks. These are often utilized in conjunction with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to access the settings of your vehicle by sending an untrue signal from a nearby transmitter.
To secure a smart card to protect it, you can place it in a metal casing or even an RFID blocking case. This will block the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from a protective case each time you need to make use of it is a hassle and a detriment to the efficiency of the technology.
Some newer policies, such as auto key cutting machine club memberships as well as extended warranties can cover the cost of replacing the fob or reimburse you in the event that it gets lost. You can also avoid paying dealership fees by having your fob cloned by a locksmith or hardware retailer that provides key-fob cloning.
The decision of whether to purchase a new fob is dependent on the importance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. It is always advisable to keep a Spare key Cutting key or fob on hand in case you lose yours. If you have to purchase a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a wide selection of fobs for most cars and trucks. Plus, our quick and convenient service costs about 50% less than what you would spend at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
The classic car key is one piece of metal with a series of grooves carved into it. These grooves are designed to fit specific locks. These keys will unlock your locks and start your car, provided you haven't replaced them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only drawback to using the traditional car key is that you need to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional car key cutting key has been damaged or lost it is necessary to visit a Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one made.
Depending on how much time has passed since you last had your keys cut there are a variety of alternatives to select from when it comes time to get another copy made. Certain keys are cut using mechanical machines, while others are laser-cut with added security features.
Modern keys are equipped with advanced features, such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes sure that only the correct key is used to open your vehicle, making it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick locks. Transponder chips are a different security feature that prevents theft. They are embedded in the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This means that it can only function only when you're within a specific distance.
If you opt to use a conventional, standard key, a locksmith is able to create a new one with a standard key cutting machine, which is available at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key cut place fob or transponder, and you are still able to operate your locks, trunk and doors.
Another alternative is to have your standard car key replaced with a laser cut version with a unique pattern. These keys were introduced in the 1990s and have become a popular option for those who want to secure their vehicles. Laser cut keys typically have special transponder chips that are specifically programmed to work for your specific vehicle. If these chips aren't present in your vehicle it won't respond to the signals generated by the key.