How To Build A Successful Keys Replacement For Cars If You're Not Business-Savvy
Keys Replacement For Cars
If you have a standard mechanical key you should be able to get a replacement at any hardware store for relatively inexpensive. This key will need to be programmed either by a locksmith or a dealer.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the car dealer to be paired with your vehicle. They can be expensive, but many car insurance companies will pay for the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical keys for your car, the ones that you put into an ignition lock cylinder to start your car. If your vehicle is equipped with one of these keys, it's cheap to replace the key and fob (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can design new keys at a lower cost than what you purchase from a dealership. You could also ask your neighbor or a friend who knows how to program aftermarket transponder keys (which are cheaper than factory keys) cut keys for you and program them. A spare key is crucial because modern cars won't start when a key is not programmed with the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys are like mechanical keys, but they contain an electronic chip inside the base. The chip communicates with the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will recognize the code that is on the chip, but will not start if you try to use another code.
If the spare key you have has a chip, it will need to be programmed at a dealership. They'll require a specific machine to cut the key and program it. These machines are available only at certain dealerships. It is unlikely that a locksmith will have the equipment necessary to create a key that has transponder.
It's expensive to replace keys with remotes, particularly if you require a spare. If you have only the shank of your key missing and an operational replacement fob, you could try reprogramming your fob by yourself. However, it could be time-consuming and difficult. You're better off contacting an expert if you've lost both the key and the fob.
Other types of keys for cars require specific skills to replace. They include flip keys as well as smart keys. They're more complicated and need to be replaced by a dealer. Key fobs can be operated by proximity sensors or a spring-loaded door opener.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys will likely be used in cars built within the past 10 years. These keys are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key and an internal receiver in your car that are both programmed to communicate with one another to start the vehicle.
Transponder keys are an excellent way to stop theft because they require two parts for the car to start that is the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer system being present, the car will not start and it is not possible to hotwire.
Key chips have an unique serial number that is specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is then sent to the immobilizer in the car and checked to match. If it does, the engine will start. This security feature is only overcome by a specific device which can read the chip and match it with a different car.
You'll require a locksmith that has the equipment needed to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service, however their overheads make them more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
It isn't easy to find a new key with a chip. The key needs to be cut using a particular machine in order to have the proper tracks that can then be used to program the key to your car. This requires special software and the correct key cutter to do it correctly.
Many auto parts stores are able to clone some of the simpler keys for chips, but you must know the serial number of the original key to ensure that the correct data is programmed into the key. Many people make the error of going to 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 referred to as a sidewinder keys due to the distinctive winding cut on the key shank. They add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. Because it takes specialized machinery to duplicate these keys, they're an excellent security measure against auto theft.
Like transponder keys. car key replacements have built-in chips that block unauthorized key copies from opening your vehicle. They also typically contain a unique code the key, which needs to be programmed to your specific car in order to unlock and start it. This additional level of security will protect your investment and stop thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle in exchange for parts or to resell it.
In terms of their design Laser-cut keys are different from standard mechanical cut keys in that they have less grooves carved out on the key. They also have a thicker key shaft that is an indication that it's not your regular car key. Locksmiths typically use a milling machine to cut keys. It's akin to a drill bit, and it's designed to remove metal at precise angles.
These are some of the most secure keys you can purchase for your vehicle, since they're extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by the locksmith who is a certified dealer. In contrast to traditional keys, they're constructed from a tiny piece of steel which is cut into a shape and then cut using the laser in the factory. This kind of key is very robust and can be able to withstand the rigors of wear and tear, making it one of the best options for protecting your car.
Depending on the key, it could either fold into the fob, or pop out at the touch of the button. The keys are typically used in German cars, and provide an extra layer of security against car thieves. They also make it difficult for thieves to pick your vehicle or pick-lock it, as the cylinder is extremely tough and is difficult to break.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the traditional single piece carved metal. They come with a chip with an unique code that is encoded on every key. The key transmits a message to the onboard computer in your vehicle each time you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer then triggers the appropriate frequency which allows you to open your car and start it.
The chip of the smart key has a number of security features to guard against theft. First, the key emits a very low-frequency signal that can't be picked up by any receiver other than your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will trigger 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.
Some smart keys have specific features, like storing driver preferences, opening windows remotely or the sunroof via remote and many other. These features can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button, or, in some instances it is as simple as twisting a tiny piece of metal inside the key.
Most key fobs come with a button that can unlock the doors by themselves However, some key fobs have an additional method to open them: a slot or holding the dead key in an area on the dashboard where it holds an inductive coil that is able to transfer energy. Some key fobs feature a mechanical (fully emergency) key blade that is inside the key.
Replacing a smart lock requires an appointment with a dealer, who will either purchase the replacement or have it on hand. The dealer will also have to program the new key to recognize your car. You can visit a locksmith to get your replacement key fob programmed and replaced. Locksmiths will cost more than a dealer, however, they can do the job quicker and cheaper.