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Car Key Cutting Explained

Car key cutting is more than simply shaping the metal. It is a complex process 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 you're able to always drive your car you'll need to have a replacement key cut.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips will likely be fitted in vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. These microchips are situated in the handle of the key and transmit a signal to the onboard computers of your vehicle when you press the key. The computer on board detects the digital serial number in the chip and only allows the car to start if it's the right one. This stops thieves from stealing your car since they'd need to know the unique serial number.

The microchip in the key transmits a low-level signal the car's receiver. The radio signal activates the microchip, and it then sends an encoded code to the car's onboard computer. The car will recognize this code and will only allow it to start if the key is the right one. This will stop the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of theft of cars.

Locksmiths that offer these services can design keys for cars that contain chips. Some auto dealers like AutoZone offer them. Those stores carry a huge range of keys and will help you get the right one for your car. They can also help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is necessary to use it.

Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys feature an cylinder for locking that is more difficult to pick, and are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or with special software. This type of technology is typically found in high-end vehicles, however it is now being used in many affordable models of automobiles as well.

The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is another type of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys feature a black resistor in the key blade that is programmed with one of 15 possible values to stop the car from starting that it's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a specific key programming machine that can only be located at certain locksmiths.

VATS Keys

Before transponder keys and cars with computer chips that control the ignition, GM used a system called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses an ordinary key with a resistor pellet embedded within it to verify that the correct key is being used to start the car. The VATS pellet black located in the middle of a VATS key is not an electronic chip like the ones used in modern smart keys. It is simply a block of carbon that is sized appropriately to have an exact electrical resistance.

GM employed 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets. They attached them to key blades in a way that, when the key is turned on, the key blades transmit a coded message 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 doesn't make a car secure from theft however it can delay the theft by at least 15 to 20 minutes.

After a long period of use the VATS module may start to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition move each when the key is placed. Over time, the wires may begin to break. Once enough of the wires are broken then the signal to the module is lost and it won't start the car.

You can resolve this issue at home by decoding your VATS code. You'll need a multimeter and a chart to determine the resistance value of your key, but it's not difficult at all. All you need to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter on the metal prongs that are visible on both sides of the key, then look at the display of the ohmmeter to find out the resistance of your key.

This is a great method to test a new key and determine whether it works in your car. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. In the event that it is not removed the key may have an incorrect VATS and not function in your vehicle.

Smart Key Fobs

Key fobs today do more than just unlock or start the car. They often have advanced features that many owners are unaware of. They can be used as a security gadget or a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door remotely and emit chirping sounds to aid in locating your car in a lot or activate it by pressing a button. This is a lot more features than you get from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their extra functions. They also need to be programmed by a dealer.

Some dealers charge up to $100 for a single smart fob. It's a huge cost to pay for a device that's frequently tossed around in purses and pockets where it could be damaged, thrown or exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity. Some automakers have developed methods to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic attacks, such as relay attacks. These are often used in combination with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to access your vehicle's settings through a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.

One method to safeguard the key fob's RFID is to store it in a metal case or use a specially designed RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from a protective case every time you want to use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.

Fortunately, some newer car-insurance policies and auto club memberships and extended warranty coverages will cover the cost of a replacement or reimburse you for the lost fob. You can also avoid paying new-car dealership fees by having your fob copied by a locksmith or hardware store that offers key-fob-cloning services.

For most drivers who are buying an additional key fob is contingent on how important your car's keyless entry and push-button start functions are. In any event, you should always have a spare fob or key fob cut near me in case you lose yours. If you do need to buy a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a vast selection of fobs for most cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and easy service is about 50% less than the price you would pay at the dealership.

Traditional Keys

Traditional car keys are a single piece of metal that has a series of grooves cut into it to fit into a particular lock. These keys will open your locks and start your car, provided you haven't replaced them by an electronic key or a remote key. The only drawback of using traditional keys is that it must be physically put into the ignition in order to start the vehicle. If your traditional car key has been damaged or lost, you will need to visit a Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one made.

Depending on how long has passed since the last time you got your keys cut, there are several different alternatives to select from when it comes time to get another copy made. Certain keys employ mechanical cutting machines to produce copies, while others use laser-cut keys made with security features in mind.

Some of these features that come with modern keys include encryption and other anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes sure that only the right key can be used to open your vehicle making it much more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Other security features to prevent theft include transponder chips that are embedded in the key to connect with your car and make it only work when it's within a specific distance of your vehicle.

If you decide to use a traditional standard key, a locksmith is able to make a new one with a standard key cutting machine, which is available at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob, or a transponder. you will still be able to use your trunk, locks and doors.

Another option is to have your traditional car key replaced with a laser key cutting cut version with a unique pattern. These keys were introduced in the early 1990s and are a popular option for those who want to protect their automobiles. Laser cut keys are typically equipped with transponder chips that are programmed to work only with your vehicle. If these chips aren't installed in your vehicle, it won't respond to the signals generated by the key.