Keys Replacement For Cars
You can purchase a replacement key for a mechanical key in any hardware shop. However, this key must be programmed by a locksmith or dealership.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit to a dealer to pair them with your vehicle. These types of keys can be costly however some insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase mechanical keys for your car which you insert into the ignition lock cylinder to start your vehicle. If your car uses one of these keys, it's cheap to replace the key and fob (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create new keys at a lower cost than what you buy from a dealer. You can also ask a neighbour or friend who is able to program transponder keys for aftermarket use (which are less expensive than keys that are factory-made) to make you a spare key and program it. A spare key is crucial because modern cars won't start if a key without the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys resemble mechanical keys but contain an electronic chip within the base. This chip is connected to the computer system in your car. The car will accept the code on the chip, but will not start if you try to use another code.
If the spare key you have has a chip, you'll need to take it to a dealership to have it programmed. The dealership will need an equipment that is specifically designed for cutting and programming the key. The machines are available at certain dealerships. It is unlikely that a locksmith will have the equipment necessary to create a key with a transponder.
It's expensive to replace keys with remotes, especially if you require a spare. If you have just the key shank missing and a functioning replacement fob you could try reprogramming your fob by yourself. However, it could be time-consuming and complicated. If you've lost the complete fob and key, however, a dealer is the best option.
Other kinds of keys for cars require special skills to replace. These include flip keys and smart key. These are more complex and usually have to be 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 was constructed in the last 10 years or so you're likely to use a transponder key system. The keys contain an embedded microchip inside the key and a receiver in your car which are both programmed to communicate with each other in order to start the vehicle.
Transponder keys are an excellent way to stop theft because they require two parts in order for the car to start which is the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver that is connected to your immobilizer system. The car will not start without both the key and immobilizer system.
Key chips have a unique serial number for your vehicle. The serial number of the key is transmitted to the immobilizer in the car and checked to match. If replacement for key fob does then the engine will begin. The only thing that can defeat this security feature is a special device that can detect the chip and match it with another car.
When you get a transponder-related key replaced it is necessary to visit an authorized locksmith who has the equipment needed to reprogram the key into your car. Some car dealerships provide this service too, but they are generally more expensive than a independent locksmith because of their overhead.
Finding a new car key that comes with a chip it is a complex process. To program your car, the key must be programmed using a specific machine. This requires specific software and the right key cutter to be done correctly.
Most auto parts stores can clone some of the simpler keys for chips, but you will need to know the serial number of the original key in order to ensure the correct information is programmed into the key. Many people make the mistake of visiting their dealer to have a chip key copied and end up paying more than they should.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys, also referred to as sidewinder keys due their distinctive winding cuts on the key shank they add a layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great deterrent to auto theft because they require special equipment to duplicate.
Like transponder keys. They have built-in chips that block unauthorised copies of keys from opening your car. They have a unique number that must be programmed to your car to unlock it and begin it. This additional layer of security is a great option to protect your investment and deter thieves who could be trying to steal your vehicle for parts or sell it to.
Laser-cut keys differ slightly from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves carved out on the key. They also have a more robust key shaft that is an indication that it's not your typical car key. Locksmiths usually use a milling machine to cut these keys. This type of machine looks like a drill and is designed to cut metal at extremely precise controlled 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 dealer or a certified locksmith. They're not like traditional keys. They're constructed from a tiny piece of steel which is cut into a shape and then cut using a laser in the factory. This kind of key is able to endure a lot of wear and tear, and is one of the best options for protecting your vehicle.
Depending on the key, it could fold into the fob, or pop out by pressing a button. Keys like this are commonly used in German cars and offer an extra layer of security against car thieves. They also make it difficult for a thief to pick or pick-lock your vehicle since the cylinder is extremely rugged and hard to break into.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the traditional single piece of carved metal. They come with a chip with a unique code, which is encoded on every 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 right frequency and allows you to connect to your car and start it.
The smart key's chip has a number of security features that guard against theft. First the key emits a low-frequency signal that isn't received by any receiver but your vehicle. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will trigger an alternative one that's a unique sequence that only your vehicle can comprehend. This will stop a tech-savvy criminal from using a pulse generator in order to "fool the system" and perform the work on other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, some smart keys have special features such as storing specific preferences for drivers remotely opening windows, the sunroof, and many more. These features can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob, pressing a button or, in some instances you can do this by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Most of these key fobs feature an unlock button that opens the doors on their own however some come with an additional way to open them: a slot or holding the dead key near the dashboard, where it houses an inductive coil that is able to transfer energy. Some even include an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade that is hidden inside the key to enable this.
Replacing a key with a smart chip typically 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 the new key to recognize your car. But, you can go to a locksmith shop to have your replacement key fob programmed and replaced. A locksmith might charge more than the dealer, but they'll be able to finish the job quicker and at a lower cost.