Keys Replacement For Cars
You can purchase an alternative key for a mechanical one at any hardware store. However, the key will need to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit to a dealer for the keys to be paired with your vehicle. These types of keys are typically expensive but some insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy mechanical car keys, the ones that you insert into the ignition lock cylinder to start your car. If your car has one of these keys, replacing the fob and keys is relatively cheap (if they get lost or stolen).
A locksmith can make an entry level key for you at a lower cost than what you would pay in a dealership. You can also have your neighbor or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys from the aftermarket (which are less expensive than keys made by the factory) cut you a spare key and then program them. It is essential to have a spare key as modern vehicles won't start in the event that the key does have the right chip.
Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, but they contain a hidden electronic chip embedded in the bottom of their plastic shape that communicates with your vehicle's computer system. Your car will be able to recognize the code inside the chip and accept it, but it will not start if another code is used.
If the spare key you have has a chip that is programmed, it will have to be programmed at a dealership. They will need to use an equipment that can cut the key and then program it. These machines are available only at specific dealerships, and it is unlikely that a locksmith will have the equipment necessary to create a key with transponder.
It's costly to replace keys using remotes, especially if you require a spare. If you have just the shank of your key missing and an operational replacement fob, you can try to reprogramme your fob on your own. However, it could be time-consuming and challenging. If you've lost your entire key and fob however you should seek out a dealer as the best option.
There are other kinds of car keys that require a more specific set of skills to replace, such as flip keys and smart keys. These are more complex and typically need to be replaced at the dealership. Certain key fobs come with a spring-loaded key that folds into the enclosure and opens a door, or they're operated with proximity sensors to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys will likely be found in cars that were built in the last 10 years. These keys contain a microchip and a receiver that is programmed to communicate with start your car.
Transponder keys are an excellent way to discourage theft because they require two parts in order for the car to be able to start - the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer device present the car will not start and it will be impossible to connect hotwire.
These key chips have an individual serial number specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is transmitted to the immobilizer of the car, and then checked to match. If it does the engine starts, it will. The only thing that can defeat this security feature is a special device that can detect the chip and match it with another car.
You'll have to find a locksmith that has the equipment needed to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service, but their overhead makes them more expensive than an independent locksmith.
Finding a new car key that comes with a chip it is a complicated procedure. To program your car, the key has to be programmed on a special machine. It requires specialized software, as well as the appropriate key cutter to do the job properly.
The majority of auto parts stores can duplicate some of the more basic chips keys, however you'll need to know the serial number from the original key in order to ensure the correct information is incorporated into the key. Many people make the mistake of visiting a dealer to get a chip key copied, and end up paying more than they should.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also known as a sidewinder key due to the distinctive winding cut on the shank of the key. They add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. Because it takes specialized machinery to duplicate these keys, they're an excellent deterrent against auto-theft.
Like transponder keys. They have embedded chips that stop unauthorized key copies from starting your vehicle. They come with a unique code that must be programmed to your vehicle to unlock it and begin it. This additional level of security is a fantastic option to protect your investment and deter thieves who might be trying to steal your car to make parts or sell it to.
Laser-cut keys differ slightly from mechanically cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves that are carved on the key. The key shaft is also thicker, which is another indication that this isn't an ordinary car key. Locksmiths usually employ a milling machine to cut these keys. This tool is similar to a drill bit, and it's designed to cut metal at precise angles.
They're among the most secure keys you can buy for your car, because they are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by the locksmith who is a certified dealer. They're not made with traditional keys. Instead, they're constructed from a small piece of steel that is cut to a code at the factory, and then cut using the laser. This kind of key can withstand a lot wear and tear and is among the best options for protecting your vehicle.
The key can be folded into the fob, or it can pop out by pressing a button. The keys are typically used in German automobiles, and offer an additional layer of protection against car thieves. The cylinder is resistant to breaking into, making it extremely difficult for a thief pick or pick-lock the vehicle.
Smart Keys
Contrary to the conventional single piece of carved metal, smart keys utilize RFID, or radio-frequency identification, to communicate with the car. They have a chip with a unique code, which is encoded on each key. Whenever you unlock your car doors or pop the trunk the key transmits a signal to your vehicle's computer onboard. The computer then triggers the appropriate frequency which allows you to open your car and begin it.
car key remote control replacement of the smart key has a number of security features that guard against theft. The key emits a low-frequency signal, which will only be detected by your vehicle. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will display another one that is an exclusive sequence that only your vehicle will recognize. This prevents a tech savvy criminal from using a pulse generator to "fool the system" and make the key work on other vehicles.
Some smart keys have special features, like storing driver preferences, opening windows remotely or the sunroof remotely and many other. These can be done by activating the key fob's proximity sensor, pressing a button on the key, or, in some cases, twisting a small metal component inside the key.
Certain key fobs are opened by placing the dead key in a slot, or by placing it in proximity to an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Certain key fobs come with a mechanical (fully emergency) key blade in the key.
Replacing a smart lock usually requires a visit to the dealership, who will either have the replacement in stock or make it available for you to purchase. The dealer will also need to program your new key to recognize your car. You can also go to an locksmith to get your replacement key fob to be programmed and replaced. Locksmiths may charge more than the dealer, but they'll likely be able to finish the job faster and at a lower cost.