7 Things About Keys Cut For Cars You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Types of Keys Cut For Cars
The cost of a new car keys isn't expensive. From a locksmith to the dealership spare keys can cost hundreds of dollars, especially ones that come with transponders or smart key fobs.
The key cutting process is more than just forming a piece of metal however. To cut various types of keys, specialized tools and techniques are required.
Traditional Keys
The mechanical key-cutting machines are used to cut traditional car keys. The edges of the key are designed to align with the pin pattern of the lock and allow the key to open the lock. These kinds of keys can be found in older cars that do not have security encoding. The traditional car key is cheaper to manufacture than other kinds of keys and is available at any hardware store or locksmith.
To get a new car key, you must first determine the type of key that you require. If you have an old-fashioned metal key that does not have a chip, you can simply get an AutoZone associate create a duplicate of the original key. They can do this by choosing the right key blank for your car's year, make and model and then using the key cutting machine to trace the original key's outline on the blank. This process only takes some minutes and is the cheapest method to acquire a replacement key.
Another option is to let locksmiths cut your new key. This option is slightly more expensive, however it offers additional security. Instead of cutting just along the edges of the key, a laser cutter can be used to mill around the edge of the key or in its middle. This makes the key more solid and more durable, making it difficult to pick for thieves. However, you might not be able to operate your car with a key cut by laser because it does not unlock the ignition.
The latest models of cars have keys that have transponders or other types of chip. They require a specific tool to program them and the car will not start if the incorrect signal is received. Another option is to get an intelligent key, which is more like a remote and allows you to unlock your vehicle and start it using a push button. The keys have to be programmed to your car however they are much more convenient than a traditional key. If you lose or steal your smart key, it is imperative to get in touch with the manufacturer of your car.
Transponder Keys
A transponder is more advanced than traditional flat metal keys. The plastic head of a transponder key contains an embedded microchip which transmits an identification code to the car when it is used to unlock and start the car. The car won't be able to turn over when the chip is damaged or not present. It is therefore very important that you do not lose your transponder and keep it safe.
You can recognize a transponder key by the fact that it features an slightly different and larger head of plastic than the regular key. The head also has an antenna ring on it which is used to transmit this ID code to the car's computer. If the car can match the ID code to an authentic key, it will turn off the immobilizer and allow the engine to operate.
This is a relatively recent technology that has proven successful in preventing thefts. While the majority of cars on the market today have this technology, there are some older models do not.
When you need a transponder key duplicated, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith near you. They will employ specially designed equipment to duplicate the key that is already in your vehicle and be able to program it with the computer in your car. Some car brands can also do this themselves by following the directions in their owner's manuals, but you should always seek advice from a professional if you are not confident doing this on your own.
Certain keys for cars are easier than others to duplicate. Although they aren't transponder keys, they can still be easily duplicated by anyone with a few simple tools. However, a transponder-type key requires a special tool in order to be copied. This means that if you lose yours it is necessary to visit a locksmith like Beishir Lock and Security that has access to this device. In the majority of instances the locksmith can make a replacement key and programmed to work with the vehicle's immobilizer system at less than the cost of a trip to the dealership.
Laser Keys
A majority of the newer vehicles have keys that are thicker than the bladed keys. These keys can be more difficult to copy of, particularly if the keys don't have any transponder chips within the keys. This makes it difficult for thieves to obtain an extra key and helps to keep your vehicle more secure since it's difficult for them to start the vehicle using a simple physical key.
The keys must be cut with high-security equipment and require a certified locksmith to perform the work. They are also referred to as laser cut keys, sidewinder keys, or flip keys. They are an excellent option to enhance the security of your car. These keys can be found in a variety of locksmith shops for automotive use. However they need to have the right equipment to cut these keys, as they require a different kind of machine.
They are difficult to replicate because the cuts they make aren't a full length through the metal, as the old style bladed keys do. Instead the cuts are made using milling machines that cut the metal with a precise and calibrated depth. The key code is used by the locksmith to determine the settings of the machine that will create the duplicate. If the machine isn't properly set up it could damage the key cutting machine, or even damage your lock cylinders.
Another reason these keys are more difficult to make is because the keys have a different pattern that hinders them from working on multiple vehicles with the same lock combination. This is similar to the way that keys with a transponder in them need to be programmed by a dealer to function on your vehicle.
They are typically an all-in one unit with an attached keyfob. They must be programmed by the dealership and they usually cost more than a conventional key that requires the blank key or an edge-cut. You'll usually have to bring your current key with you and the dealership will have the tools to program it for you. A reputable auto locksmith could also do this, but the cost will be higher.
Smart Keys
A smart key is the most sophisticated and expensive kind of car key. These are essentially remotes that have sensors built in and connect to your car through radio waves. They can be used to lock and unlock your car without the need for a physical key, as well as start your engine. Some smart keys have an integrated screen that lets you perform a variety of tasks via the key fob, such as navigation and music playback.
These smart keys use anti-theft technology to stop theft. The smart keys transmit a rolling-code that the car's computer recognizes and validates prior to starting the engine. If a criminal attempts to open the car's doors or start the engine using an invalid key, the car will trigger alarm and shut down the engine. This feature protects the investment you've made in your car and provides extra peace of mind when you're away from it.
Modern cars are more complex than ever before, which is why it is essential to understand the difference between traditional keys and modern ones. When it's time to replace your key, knowing the various options available will assist you in making the best decision for your requirements.
If you're looking to replace the key you have or replace it, we can cut a copy of the original key or a transponder supplied by the manufacturer to program keys into your car. We can cut both edge-cut and laser-cut keys, and we'll try our best to match your original key as closely as you can. We offer a range of automotive services like ignition repair and replacement.
key cut places near me 's a good idea no matter what type of key you have, to always have an extra. car keys cut and programmed of your car key could be stressful and costly when you need to go to the dealer for programming or call an locksmith. car keys cut and programmed to be proactive and purchase an extra key today prior to losing one or require replacement. Stop by today for a competitive price and fast service! We are your local, trusted automotive expert.