Test: How Much Do You Know About Cut Car Key?
Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting keys for cars is more than just bending a piece metal. It is a complicated process that guarantees security, function and long-term use of keys.
It is not uncommon to lose your car keys or even have it break in the lock. To ensure that you can always drive your car you'll need to have a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed within the last 20 years, it's likely that it has transponder chips. These microchips are situated in the key's handle and transmit a signal your vehicle's onboard computers when you turn the key. The computer onboard checks the digital serial number of the chip prior to it allows the car to start. This stops thieves from stealing your car since they'd need to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip inside your car keys transmits an unintentional radio signal to the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip, and it then sends an encoded code to the car's onboard computer. The car will only start only if it recognizes the code. This stops the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of stealing cars.
Locksmiths who provide these services can create car keys with 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 car. They can assist you in programming your car's chip which is needed to operate the device.
Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys are more secure than traditional flat keys due to having locks that are harder to pick. They are only duplicated with expensive laser key cutting equipment, or specialized software. This type of technology is typically found in high-end cars however, it is now available on a variety of affordable models.
Another type of key for cars that is hard to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. These keys feature a black resistor on the blade of the key that is programmed with one of 15 possible values to prevent them from starting a car that it's not meant to. These keys are costly and require a key programming machine, which is only available at certain locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys and cars that had computer chips built in to control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a key with an internal resistor to ensure that the correct key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet in black located in the middle of a VATS Key isn't a smart chip like those present on modern keys. It is simply a block or carbon that is sized to have an electrical resistance value.
GM used 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets and attached the key blades to them so that when the key is turned in the ignition 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 doesn't make a car burglar-proof, but it can delay the thief for a minimum of 15 to twenty minutes.
After a prolonged period of usage, the VATS module can begin to wear out. The two wires that connect the ignition are moved each when the key is introduced. Over time the wires could start to break. Once enough wires are broken the signal is lost to the module and the car won't start.
You can solve this issue at home by decoding your VATS code. You'll require a multimeter and a chart to determine the resistance value of your key, but it is not that difficult. You can determine the resistance value by putting one of the leads on the prongs of metal on both sides of your key.
This can also be a good method to test a new key to determine whether it works in your car. Remove the key from the ignition first before you test it. If not the key could have an incorrect VATS and not function in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys
Key fobs today do more than just unlock or start cars. A lot of them come with advanced features that many owners aren't aware of. They can be used as a security gadget or as a deterrent to theft. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and emit chirping sounds to assist you in finding your vehicle when you're in a hurry or summon it by pressing the button. That's a lot more than you could ever expect from the traditional keychain remote. However, all that additional functionality can mean that smart key fobs could be pricier to replace than traditional keychain remotes, and they usually require programming by the dealer.
In fact, some dealers charge upwards of $100 to replace a single smart key fob. It's a huge price for a device that is often jostled in purses and pockets where it could be damaged, dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity. Certain automakers have devised methods to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. These are typically combined with a remote start hack that allows thieves access to your vehicle's settings via the transmission of a fake signal by another transmitter close to.
One method of protecting the key fob's RFID is to store it in a metal case or use an RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. The convenience of this technology is compromised if must take your key fob out every time you need to take it out of the protective case.
Fortunately, some of the newer car insurance policies, auto club memberships, and extended warranty insurance policies will cover the cost of a replacement or reimburse you for the lost fob. You can also save money on new car dealership charges and get your fob cut at a hardware store or locksmith that offers key-fob cloning services.
For most drivers, the decision to purchase an extra key fob will depend on the importance of your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. Always keep an extra key or fob in case you lose yours. And if you need to buy 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 the price you'd pay at a dealership.
Traditional Keys
The classic car key is made of a single piece of steel with a series grooves carved into it. These grooves are made to fit certain locks. They can unlock your locks and start the car, provided you haven't changed them out to a smart or remote key. The only downside of 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 has been damaged or lost, you will need to visit the Gainesville Locksmith to have a new one made.
There are a variety of options to choose from depending on how long it's been since you've cut your keys. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines and others are laser-cut with security features that are enhanced.
Modern keys come with advanced features like encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption ensures that only the right key can be used to open your vehicle which makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Transponder chips are a different anti-theft feature. They are embedded into the key and communicate with your vehicle. This means that they only effective only when you're within a specific distance.
If you decide to make use of a traditional key, your locksmith can create the new key using the standard cutter machine, which can be purchased at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or a transponder key, and you'll still be able to operate your locks, doors and trunk.
Another alternative is to get your traditional car key replaced with a laser cut version with a unique pattern. The first keys of this kind were released in the 1990s and are a popular choice for those looking to protect their automobiles. Laser cut car keys cutting and programming are usually equipped with transponder chip that is programmed to only work with your vehicle. If these chips aren't installed in your vehicle, it won't respond to the signals from the key and won't start.