Keys Replacement For Cars
You can purchase a replacement key for a mechanical key at any hardware shop. However, the key will have to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
automotive car key replacement are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These types of keys can be costly however some insurance companies cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase car keys that are only mechanical, the kind that you put into an ignition lock cylinder and then turn to start your car. If your car is equipped with one of these keys, replacing the fob and key is fairly inexpensive (if they're lost or stolen).
A locksmith can design new keys for less than what you purchase from a dealership. You could also have your neighbor or a friend who is proficient in programming transponder keys from the aftermarket (which are less expensive than keys from factory) cut keys and program them. Getting a spare is important because modern cars won't begin when a key that isn't programmed with the correct chip is used.
Transponder keys look like mechanical keys, but they contain a hidden electronic chip in the base of their plastic form that communicates with your car's computer system. Your car will recognize the code that is on the chip, but it will not start if you try to use another code.
If your spare key contains a chip, it will need to be programmed at a dealership. The dealership will require an exclusive machine for cutting and programming the key. These machines are only available through certain dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith has the tools needed to make keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
It's expensive to replace keys using remotes, particularly if you require a spare. If you have just the shank of your key missing and a functioning replacement fob you could try reprogramming your fob on your own. However, it can be time-consuming and difficult. You're better off contacting an authorized dealer if you've lost both the fob and the key.
There are other types of car keys that require a specialized set of skills to replace, like flip keys and smart keys. They are more complicated and are usually replaced at the dealership. Key fobs can be operated by a proximity sensor or a door opener with a spring loaded mechanism.
Transponder Keys
If your car is built in the past 10 years or so, it's likely to use a transponder key system. These keys are equipped with a microchip within the key and an internal receiver in your car that are both programmed to communicate with each other to start the car.
Transponder keys are a great method to deter theft since they require two components for the car to be able to start that is the transmitter (transponder) inside the key and the receiver that is connected to your immobilizer system. The car won't start without the key and the immobilizer system.
These key chips are programmed with a unique serial number that is unique to the vehicle you own. The serial number of the key is sent to the immobilizer of the car, and then checked to match. If it does the engine starts, it will. The only thing that could stop this security feature is a special device that is able to read the chip and match it with another car.
You'll need to find a locksmith that has the equipment to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships offer this service, however their overheads make them more expensive than a locksmith who is independent.
The process of getting a new car keys that has a chip in it can be a very complicated procedure. The key has to be cut on a specific machine in order to have the correct tracks in place that can be programmed to assign the key to your car. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to do it correctly.
The majority of auto parts stores can duplicate some of the more basic keys for chips, but you will need to know the serial number of the original key to ensure that the correct information is incorporated into the key. Many people make a mistake by visiting their dealer to purchase a copy of a chip key only to end up paying overpriced prices.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, referred to as sidewinder keys due their distinctive winding cuts in the key shank provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. Keys like these are a great deterrent to auto theft because they require specialized machinery to duplicate.
Like transponder keys, they feature built-in chips that prevent duplicate keys from opening your car. They also contain a unique code the key that must be programmed for your particular vehicle in order to unlock and start it. This extra level of security will safeguard your investment and stop thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle in exchange for parts or to resell it.
Laser-cut keys differ slightly from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves that are carved on the key. The shaft of the key is larger, which is a indication that this isn't an ordinary car key. Locksmiths typically use a milling machine to cut these keys. This tool is similar to a drill bit and it's designed to cut metal in very precise angles.
These are the safest keys you can purchase for your vehicle. They are difficult to duplicate and must by cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. Unlike traditional keys, they're made from a small piece of steel that is made into a code, and then cut with a laser in the factory. This kind of key can be able to withstand a great deal of wear and tear, and is one of the best options for protecting your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it will fold into the fob, or pop out with the click of a button. Keys like this are commonly used in German cars and offer an additional layer of security against car thieves. They also make it difficult for a thief to pick or pick-lock your car since the cylinder is extremely durable and is difficult to break.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the conventional single piece of carved metal. This means that they are equipped with a tiny chip that contains an encrypted code that is unique to each key. When you open your car doors or pop the trunk the key sends a signal to your car's onboard computer. The computer then signals the correct frequency which allows you to open your car and begin it.
The chip of the smart key comes with a variety of security features that guard against theft. The key emits an extremely low-frequency signal, which can only be detected by your car. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will prompt a different one that is an exclusive sequence that only your vehicle can recognize. This will stop a tech-savvy criminal from using an electronic pulse generator to "fool the system" and do the key work on other vehicles.
Some smart keys have special features, such as the ability to store preferences for drivers, opening windows remotely or the sunroof from afar and many more. These functions can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button, or, in certain instances you can do this by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Certain key fobs are opened by placing the dead key in a slot or by placing it near an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Certain key fobs come with a mechanical (fully emergency) key blade that is inside the key.
Replacing a smart key typically requires a visit to the dealer, who will either have the replacement on hand or order it for you. They'll also have to program the new key to recognize the car you are driving. But, you can go to a locksmith shop to have your replacement key fob programed and replaced. A locksmith may charge more than the dealer, but they'll be able to finish the job more quickly and for less.