Keys Replacement For Cars
You can buy an alternative key for a mechanical key at any hardware shop. The key must be programmed either by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complex and require a visit from the car dealer to be paired with your car. These kinds of keys are typically expensive, but some car insurance companies cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still buy car keys that are only mechanical, the kind that you insert into an ignition lock cylinder and turn to start your car. If your car is equipped with one of these, replacing the fob and key is relatively inexpensive (if they are lost or stolen).
A locksmith can cut an entry level key for you at a cheaper cost than what you would pay at a dealership. You could also ask a neighbor or friend who is able to program transponder keys for aftermarket use (which are cheaper than the factory keys) to make you a spare key and have it programmed. It is essential to have a spare since modern cars won't be able to start if a key without the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, but they have a hidden electronic chip in the base of their plastic design that communicates with your car's computer system. The car will accept the code on the chip, but will not start if you use another code.
If your spare key has a chip that is programmed, it will have to be programmed by a dealer. They will need to use an equipment that can cut the key and program it. These machines are only available at specific dealerships, and it's not likely that a locksmith has the equipment required to create keys that are laser-cut with a transponder.
Keys with remotes are expensive to replace, particularly in the event that you need an extra. If you have only the key shank missing, and an operational replacement fob, you can try to reprogramme your fob on your own. However, it can be time-consuming and difficult. car replacement key off contacting a dealer when you've lost the key and the fob.
Other types of car keys require more special skills to replace. This includes flip keys and smart key. These are more complicated and need to be replaced by the dealer. Certain key fobs operate by a proximity sensor or a spring-loaded door opener.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys will likely be used in cars constructed in the last 10 years. The keys contain a microchip within the key itself and the car's receiver which are both programmed to communicate with one another to start the vehicle.
Transponder keys are an excellent way to stop theft because they require two parts in order for the car to be started that is the transmitter (transponder) inside the key and the receiver that is connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer system present the car will not start and it will be impossible to hotwire.
These key chips have an individual serial number specific to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is sent to the immobilizer in the car and checked to match. If it does then the engine will begin. This security feature is only defeated by a special device which can read the chip and match it with a different car.
You'll have to find an locksmith with the equipment needed to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service, but their overhead makes them more expensive than an independent locksmith.
It isn't easy to find an entirely new key that has a chip. The key needs to be cut using a particular machine to ensure that it has the correct tracks in place that can be used to program the key to your car. It requires specialized software and the correct key cutter to do the job properly.
Many auto parts stores are able to duplicate some of the more basic keys for chips, but you will need to be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure that the correct data is programmed into the key. Many people make the error of visiting their dealer to have a chip key copied and end in paying more than they need to.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred to as sidewinder key because of the distinctive winding cut that is made 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 a great security measure against auto theft.
They also have built-in chips that prevent unauthorized key copying from starting your vehicle. They also typically contain a unique code the key, which must be programmed for your specific vehicle to unlock it and start it. This extra level of security will guard your investment and stop thieves from attempting to steal your car for parts or to sell it.
Laser-cut keys differ from mechanically cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves cut on the key. They also have a thicker key shaft which is an excellent indication that it's not a regular car key. Locksmiths typically use milling machines to cut keys. This tool is similar to a drill, and is designed to remove metal at precise angles.
They're among the most secure keys you can buy for your car, because they're very hard to replicate and only cut by a dealer or a certified locksmith. They're not made using traditional keys. Instead, they're made of a tiny piece of steel that is shaped into a specific code at the factory, and then cut using laser. This type of key can endure a lot of wear and tear, and is among the best options for protecting your vehicle.
The key can be folded up into the fob, or pop out by pressing the button. These types of keys are typically used in German cars and offer an additional layer of protection against car thieves. The cylinder is resistant to breaking into, making it very difficult for a thief pick or pick-lock the car.
Smart Keys Keys
Contrary to the conventional single piece of carved metal smart keys use RFID, or radio-frequency identification for short, to communicate with the car. This means they have tiny chips that contain an encrypted code that is unique to each key. When you open your car doors or pop the trunk the key transmits a signal to your car's onboard computer. The computer will then signal the appropriate frequency to allow you to start your car.
The smart key's chip also includes a variety of security features that guard against theft. First the key emits a low-frequency signal that isn't picked up by any other receiver, not even your car. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will display another one that is an exclusive sequence that only your vehicle will recognize. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using a pulse generator in order to "fool the system" and make the key work on other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, certain smart keys also have additional functions such as storing particular driver preferences remote opening windows or the sunroof, among others. These functions can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob, pressing a button or, in certain instances, 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 in proximity to an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Some even come with an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade that is hidden inside the key to activate this.
Replacing a smart lock requires an appointment with a dealer, who can either purchase the replacement or stock it. The dealer will also need to program the new key to recognize your vehicle. But, you can go to a locksmith shop to have your replacement key fob programed and replaced. Locksmiths will cost more than a dealer, but he or she can do the job quicker and for less.