Types of Ignition Key Replacement

The blade style car key is the most simple to use. It's as simple as inserting it into the ignition lock cylinder and you're good to go. Older cars have these keys however modern models incorporate transponder chips inside the keys that must be programmed to work with the car.

It is common to have these keys replaced at an auto dealership or locksmith. They can provide an replacement with your car's VIN number.

Transponder Keys

If your car was made in the last 20 years, there's a guarantee that it has a transponder chip embedded within. This technology is a combination of mechanical security and electronic security. It transmits a coded message to the vehicle after you insert the ignition key. The engine control unit compared this code against its internal database to determine if you are the authorized vehicle owner. If you are, the car will start. The process happens in milliseconds and is invisible to the naked eye.

If you have a transponder key, you will be able to detect tiny electronic chips on the surface of your key. The most efficient way to test it is to insert the key into your ignition and turn it on. If your car responds, it means that the key is programmed and successfully verified as being an authentic transponder key.

The reason for this additional layer of security is that while traditional keys rely on matching the lock tumblers transponder chips transmit an electronic signal to the car's computer. This stops people from hot-wiring their cars by ensuring that the correct key is used.

Follow these steps to reprogram the transponder. First, ensure the key is in working state and put it away. Then, you can insert the blank key in the ignition and turn it to the "on" position. After approximately 15 minutes, turn off the ignition. After 15 minutes, you are able to try to start the car once more. If it isn't starting then you'll have to repeat the procedure of turning off and turning on the car.

The process of reprogramming the transponder key is more complicated and costly than the process of duplicated a regular mechanical car key. You'll also need to cut your key professionally, Car Ignition locksmith and a car ignition switch repair key programmer is needed to extract the code and then match it to a transponder that is new.

Smart Keys

With smart keys, drivers can open their doors and start their engine by simply pressing a button without having to insert the key into the ignition. The fob is equipped with an electronic transponder that connects to an immobilizer inside the car, disarming it so the car can be started. The fob usually has remote control buttons that control the door locks, release the trunk and open the tailgates. Some have the panic button, which when activated, blasts the vehicle's horn to dissuade intruders.

Smart keys aren't different. They come with their pros and cons, just like every other technology. They can provide convenience and car ignition locksmith increased security, especially for those who often forget to lock their vehicle. These features can also help save money in the long run.

Smart keys aren't just an effective way to keep thieves from stealing vehicles, but they can also aid you in avoiding the infamous phrase, "it's somewhere in here." Instead of using a traditional metal key shaft, smart keys communicate with your car through radio frequency signals. They cannot be duplicated with the traditional key. However, this doesn't mean that you can't locate the key if it does happen to disappear.

Depending on the manufacturer, smart keys may be more expensive than traditional groove cut keys. The main reason is because smart keys are equipped with electronic components, which makes them more complicated and difficult to fix in the event of a malfunction.

Fortunately, Pop-A Lock can replace and program the majority of smart keys at less than the cost of your dealership. We can even complete the process in a much shorter time, avoiding the hassle of having plan alternative transportation until your vehicle is fixed. So, if you're considering getting a smart key for your car Do yourself a favor and buy a spare fob to keep in a secure place, or consider motor insurance that has a substantial pay out should you lose your keys. Keep it out of the anyone's eyes. Low frequency transmissions can allow the theft of your car.

Switchblade Keys

There are many options available when replacing the ignition key. The traditional key is the most popular, and it has an iron shaft with distinct cutouts or notches which correspond to lock tumblers in the door and ignition cylinder. They aren't equipped with advanced features, such as remote unlocking or keyless entry, but they are reliable and simple to use.

Transponder keys, on the other hand, are a significant leap forward in automotive security technology. These keys have an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the receiver inside the vehicle. The vehicle will only start if the correct code has been sent. This type of key has proven effective in reducing the theft of vehicles and programming a new key with a transponder is relatively easy for a skilled car locksmith.

Flip-style keys are a type of key that folds away the blade when not when not in use. This will protect the blade of the key from being damaged and makes it more convenient to carry. This type of key features an accessory key fob that has remote control features. Drivers can lock and unlock car trunks, doors, or even start their engines remotely.

Laser cut keys are available for those looking to add an extra layer of security against auto theft. These keys have their shanks cut by the help of a laser, resulting in an extremely precise and difficult to duplicate pattern. These keys are more expensive than traditional keys and basic key fobs, however they offer a higher level of security.

Switchblade keys are also available that resemble bladed weapons. They can fold up into a handle when not being employed. When the user presses a button the handle opens and exposes the key blade exactly like a switchblade knife. Locksmiths can replace the key blade, or the key fob in this kind of lock. However, they are more expensive than standard replacements.

Smart keys are the most recent advancement in security for vehicles. They provide a completely electronic system for unlocking and starting your car. The keys communicate with the vehicle using antennas embedded in the car ignition locksmith's frame and body, eliminating the need for a traditional blade and the requirement to physically insert the key into the ignition cylinder. Some of the most advanced models are able to lock and start the car without the key being inserted in the ignition. However, you must be within range.

Key Fobs

Key fobs are basically remotes for cars that let you to lock and start your vehicle without needing to touch the actual ignition. They are small, rectangular and have buttons that perform many functions. From locking the doors to remotely starting the car, they can be used for everything. They are connected to the car key using small plastic cases that could also include buttons to open the trunk or activate an alarm.

Some newer cars also have keys that can be combined to provide both a traditional key shank as well as an accessory key fob, with the latter usually controlling the ignition. They are also referred to as "transponder keys."

Many modern car owners do not realize that they use their key fobs to unlock their vehicles. These devices can be an excellent way to make driving more convenient however they also have a few drawbacks.

The most obvious issue is that a key-fob can run out of battery. The electronic signals that unlock your vehicle and then start it operate by sending a code to the car's computer, so when the signal is disrupted or is lost the key fob won't be capable of operating the car.

Fortunately key fobs of today are designed to ward off such threats. They are often programmed to send random numbers to the car's system each time they transmit signals. This stops old codes from being re-used and renders stolen keys useless for thieves.

If the key is lost, the key fob will be used as a backup to start and unlock the vehicle. Some manufacturers have taken it a step further and created apps that can be downloaded onto a phone and used to control a vehicle, in the event that you're unable to find your key fob.

If you have a key fob that has to be replaced, you should contact a professional locksmith. They can assist you, and their services tend to be less expensive than a dealership.