Keys Replacement For Cars

If you have a basic mechanical key, you should be able to get a replacement at any hardware store for affordable. However, this key will need to be programmed by a locksmith or dealership.

Smart keys are more complex and require a trip to the dealer to connect them to your car replacement key. These kinds of keys are typically expensive however some insurance companies cover the cost.

Mechanical Keys

You can still purchase car keys that are only mechanical, like the ones you place in an ignition lock cylinder, and turn to start your car. If your vehicle is equipped with one of these, it's inexpensive to replace the fob and key (if lost or stolen).

A locksmith can make the basic key for you at a lower cost than what you would pay at a dealership. You can also ask a neighbor or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys for aftermarket use (which are cheaper than the factory keys) to make you a spare key and have it programmed. A spare key is crucial because modern cars won't begin when a key that isn't programmed with the proper chip is used.

Transponder keys look a lot like mechanical keys, however they are actually equipped with an electronic chip embedded in the bottom of their plastic form that communicates with the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will be able to recognize the code inside the chip and accept it, but it will refuse to start if any other code is used.

If the spare key you have has a chip, you'll need to bring it to a dealer to get it programmed. They will need to use a specific machine to cut the key and then program it. These machines are only available through certain dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith has the equipment required to create an engraved key using a laser transponder.

Keys with remotes can be costly to replace, especially in the event that you need a spare. You could try reprogramming your fob yourself if you're only missing the shank on the key and you have a functional replacement car keys fob, however it can be time-consuming and laborious. If you've lost the complete fob and the key however, a dealer is your best bet.

There are different kinds of car keys that require a specialized set of skills to replace, such as flip keys and smart keys. They're more complicated and require replacement key fob for car by the dealer. Some key fobs feature an electronic key that folds into the enclosure and opens a door, or they're operated with the use of a proximity sensor to open and start your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys will likely be found in cars that were built in the past 10 years. These keys contain an embedded microchip and a receiver that is programmed to communicate with start your car.

Transponder keys are an excellent method of preventing theft since they require two elements to start the car: the transmitter contained in the key and the receiver that is connected to the immobilizer. The car won't start without both the key and immobilizer system.

These key chips are programmed with a serial number that is unique to your vehicle. When the key is inserted into your ignition, the serial number is transmitted to the immobilizer in the car and verified that it matches up and allows the engine to start. The only thing that could defeat this security feature is a special device that is able to read the chip and match it with another car.

If you need a transponder-related key replaced you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith who has the equipment needed to reprogram the keys to your vehicle. Some car dealerships also offer this service, but their overheads make them more expensive than an independent locksmith.

It isn't easy to get an entirely new key that has a chip. The key needs to be cut using a particular machine in order to have the correct tracks in place which can later be programmed to assign the key to your car. This requires specific software and the right key cutter to get it done properly.

Certain of the more basic chip keys can be copied at most auto part stores, but you need to be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure the correct information is programmed into the new key. Many people make the mistake of visiting their dealer to have their chip key copied, and end in paying more than they should.

Laser-Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys are also known as sidewinder key because of the distinctive winding cut on the key shank. They add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great security measure against theft of your vehicle because they require specialized equipment to duplicate.

Like transponder keys, they have embedded chips that stop unauthorised copies of keys from getting into your car. They also typically come with a unique code on the key that must be programmed for your specific vehicle in order to allow it to be opened and started. This additional level of security will safeguard your investment and stop thieves from attempting to steal your car for parts or to sell it.

Laser-cut keys differ slightly from mechanically cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves cut on the key. The key shaft is also thicker, which is another sign that this is not a regular car key. Locksmiths typically use a milling machine to cut keys. It's akin to a drill, and it's designed to cut metal in very precise angles.

They are the most secure keys you can purchase for your vehicle. They are extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by a licensed locksmith or dealer. They're not created using traditional keys. Instead, they're made of a tiny piece of steel that is cut into a specific code at the factory and then cut with a laser. This kind of key is extremely robust and can endure many years of wear and tear, making it one of the best options for protecting your car.

Depending on the key, it could fold into the fob, or pop out by pressing a button. These kinds of keys are commonly used in German automobiles and provide an additional layer of protection against car thieves. The cylinder is robust and difficult to break into, making it very 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, also known as radio-frequency identification to connect with the car. They have a chip with a unique code, which is encoded on each key. The key sends a signal to the computer onboard of your vehicle each time you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer then prompts the appropriate frequency, allowing you to access your car and begin it.

The chip in the smart key is equipped with several security features to guard it from theft. The key emits an extremely low-frequency signal, which will only be detected by your car. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will display an alternative one that's an individual sequence that only your car can understand. This stops a cyber-savvy criminal from using an external generator to "fool" the system and create the key function for other vehicles.

In addition to locking and starting the car, some smart keys have special features such as storing particular driver preferences remote opening windows or the sunroof, and many more. These features are accessible by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob, pressing a button or, in certain instances you can do this by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.

Most of these key fobs have a button that can unlock the doors for themselves However, some key fobs have an additional method to open them by a slot or placing the dead key close to the dashboard where it holds an inductive coil which can transfer energy. Some even come with an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade hidden in the key to enable this.

To replace a smart key, you'll need a trip to the dealer, who can either order the replacement car key or stock it. The dealer will also need to program your new key to identify your car. You can also go to an locksmith to get your replacement key fob to be programmed and then replaced. A locksmith may cost more than a dealer however, they can do the job faster and cheaper.