Car Key Cutting Explained

Car key cutting is more than simply shaping a piece of metal. It is a complicated process that ensures security, functionality and durability of keys.

It is not uncommon to lose your car keys or even have them break into the lock. To ensure that you are able to always drive your vehicle, you will require a replacement key cut.

Transponder Keys

If your car was built within the last 20 years, it is likely that it has a transponder chip. These chips are small microchips located in the handle of your key that send signals to the car's onboard computer whenever you use it. The onboard computer examines the serial number of the chip prior to allowing the car to begin. This stops theft of vehicles as thieves would have to know your unique serial number to have a chance at hijacking it.

The microchip in the key transmits a low-level signal the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip that then transmits the code to the onboard computer of the car. The car will be able to recognize this code and only allow it to start if the key is the correct one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.

Locksmiths who offer these services can create car keys with chips. Some auto dealers like AutoZone offer keys with chips. Those stores carry a huge selection of keys and can assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your vehicle. They can even help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is necessary for it to function.

There are also laser cut keys that are more secure than conventional flat keys. They have a lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick, and can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting equipment or special software. This technology is most commonly found in high-end vehicles however, it is now available on many affordable models.

The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different type of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys have a black resistor on the blade of the key that is programmed with one of 15 potential values to prevent the car from starting that it's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to buy and require a special key programming device that can only be found at a few locksmiths.

Keys to VATS

Before the advent of transponder keys and automobiles equipped with computer chips to control the ignition of a car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a standard mobile key cutting with a resistor pellet embedded within it to verify that the correct key is being used to start the car. The VATS pellet black inside the middle of a VATS key is not a chip like those used in modern smart keys, it is simply a carbon block that is sized appropriately to have a specific electrical resistance value.

GM employed 15 different resistances for VATS pellets and connected them to key blades so that when the key is turned in the ignition the key blades transmit a coded message to the module. If the signal matches the one of the transistors in a VATS pellet then the relay in the starter circuit will be activated and the engine will begin to run. This doesn't make a car secure from theft, but it will delay the theft by at least 15 to 20 minutes.

After a prolonged period of usage the VATS module could start to wear out. Each time a key is inserted into the ignition it reroutes two small wires within the ignition, and over time the wires could begin to break. Once enough wires are broken the signal goes out to the module and the car won't start.

The good news is that you can solve this problem yourself at home by decoding your VATS key. You'll require a multimeter as well as a chart to find out the resistance value of your key, but it is not that difficult. All you need to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter on the prongs of metal that are visible on both sides of the key, and 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 car. Just be sure to remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, or else the new key could be displaying an incorrect VATS value and may not work in your vehicle.

Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys

Key fobs of today do more than just unlock or start the car. They can also be a security device and a theft deterrent, with many of them featuring advanced features that owners may not even know about. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and make chirping sounds to assist you in finding your vehicle when you're in a hurry or summon it by pressing a button. This is more functionality than you obtain from a traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their extra functions. They also need to be programmed at the dealer.

Some dealers charge up to $100 for a single smart fob. It's a huge price to pay for a device that is often tossed around in purses and pockets in the event that it gets damaged, thrown or exposed to extreme temperatures and laser key cutting moisture. Fortunately, some automakers have developed methods to shield smart key fobs from common kinds of electronic attacks, such as relay attacks. They are usually paired with a remote start hack that gives thieves access to your vehicle's settings through the transmission of a fake signal from another transmitter close to.

To secure a smart card, you can store it in a metal case or use an RFID blocking case. This will stop the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from its protective case every time you use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.

Some newer policies like auto club memberships or extended warranties, will cover the cost of replacing the fob, or reimburse you if it gets lost. You can also save money on new-mobile car key cutting dealer charges and have your fob cut at the hardware store or locksmith which offers key-fob cloning.

The decision of whether to purchase a new fob is based on the importance of your car's keyless start and entry functions. In any event, you should always have an extra key or fob handy just in case you lose it. Batteries Plus offers a large range of replacement fobs that fit most cars and trucks. In addition, our quick and convenient service costs about 50% less than what you would spend at the dealership.

Traditional Keys

The traditional car key is one piece of metal with a series of grooves cut into it. These grooves are designed to fit specific locks. They can open your locks and start your vehicle, provided that you haven't replaced them by an electronic key or a remote key. The only downside of using a traditional car key is that you need to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional key is lost, broken or stolen, you'll have to visit the Gainesville locksmith to get an alternative one made from the blank.

Depending on how long has passed since the last time you had your keys cut, there are several different options available for you to pick from when it comes time to get another copy made. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines, while others are laser-cut with enhanced security features.

Modern keys come with advanced features like encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption ensures that only the correct key is used to open your vehicle making it much more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Other security features that prevent theft include transponder chips, which are incorporated into the key to communicate with your car and make it only work when it's within a specific distance of your vehicle.

If you opt to use a traditional standard key, a locksmith could create a new one using a standard key cutter machine that can be found at the majority of hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or a transponder. you will still be able to use your trunk locks, trunk locks, and doors.

Another alternative is to get car key cut your standard car key substituted with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. The first keys of this kind were released in the 1990s and are an increasingly popular choice for those who wish to secure their automobiles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chip that is programmed to work only with your vehicle. If these chips aren't present in your vehicle they will not respond to the signals transmitted by the key.