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Car Key Cutting Explained

Car key cutting is much more than just shaping an object of metal. It is a complicated process that ensures security, functionality and long-term use of keys.


It is not unusual to lose keys to your car, or even have them break into the lock. You will need a replacement car key to ensure that you can drive your car at all times.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips will likely be fitted in vehicles built in the last 20 years. These microchips are situated in the key's handle and transmit a signal to the onboard computers in your vehicle when you use the key. The onboard computer checks the digital serial number of the chip before it allows the car to begin. This stops theft of vehicles, as thieves would need to know your unique serial number in order to be able to steal it.

The microchip in the key transmits a low-level signal the receiver within the car. This radio signal activates the microchip that then transmits the instructions to the onboard computer of the car. The car will recognize the code and only allow it to start if the key is the right one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods to steal cars.

Car keys with chips can be made at an authorized locksmith who offers these services. They can also be bought at some automotive retailers, such as AutoZone. Those stores carry a huge selection of keys and can assist you in selecting the best one for your car. They can even help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is necessary to use it.

Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. They have a lock cylinder that is much harder to pick, and can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting machines or with specially designed software. This type of technology is typically found in high-end vehicles however, it is now available on many affordable models.

The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different type of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys contain a resistor that's black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to one of 15 possible values to prevent it from starting a vehicle it's not intended to. They are expensive and require an instrument for programming keys, which is only available through certain locksmiths.

Keys to VATS

Before transponder keys or cars that had computer chips built in to control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a regular key that has a resistor pellet embedded inside it to confirm that the correct key is being used to start the vehicle. The VATS black pellet that is inside the middle of the VATS key isn't a chip like those used in modern smart keys, it is simply a block of carbon that is sized appropriately to have an electrical resistance that is specific to.

GM used 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets and connected the key blades to them so that, when the key was turned on, a coded signal is sent to the module. If it matches the resistance value of the transistor in the VATS pellet, the relay in the starter circuit is activated and the engine will start to run. This isn't a way to make a car safe from theft however it can delay the theft by at most 15 to 20 minutes.

After a lot of usage the VATS module may start to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved every time a key is placed. As time passes the wires can start to break. When enough wires have been broken the signal goes out to the module and the car won't start.

The good news is that you can solve this issue at home by decoding your VATS key. It's not hard to determine the resistance value of a key by using the multimeter. All you need to do is put one of the leads of your ohm gauge on the prongs of metal that are hanging out on both sides of the key, then examine the display of your ohm meter to determine the resistance value of your key.

This is a great opportunity to test a brand new key and check whether it will work in your vehicle. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. In the event that it is not removed the key could have an incorrect VATS, and will not work in your car.

Smart Key Fobs for Keys

Key fobs today do more than just unlock or start the car. A lot of them come with advanced features that most owners are unaware of. They can be used as a security device or a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door remotely and make chirping sounds to help you locate your car in a lot or activate it by pressing the button. This is more functionality than you can get from a traditional keychain remote. However, all that additional functionality can mean that smart key fobs could be more expensive to replace than traditional keychain remotes, and they usually need to be programmed by the dealer.

In fact, some dealers will charge up to $100 to replace a single smart key fob. It's a high price to pay for a product that is often tossed around in pockets and purses where it could be damaged, thrown or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Certain automakers have developed strategies to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. These are typically combined with a remote start hack that gives thieves access to your vehicle's settings via the transmission of a fake signal from another transmitter close to.

To secure a smart card, you can store it in a metal case or even an RFID blocking case. This will stop the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from its protective case each time you need to use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.

Fortunately, some newer car-insurance policies such as auto club memberships and extended warranty coverages will pay for the cost of a replacement or reimburse you for a lost fob. G28 Car Keys can also save money on dealer fees and have your fob cut at a hardware store or locksmith which offers key-fob cloning.

For most drivers who want to buy a new key fob depends on the importance of your car's keyless entry and push-button start functions are. It is always advisable to keep an extra key or fob on hand in the event that you lose yours. If you have to purchase a replacement, Batteries Plus has a large selection of fobs to fit the majority of cars and trucks. Plus, our quick and efficient service is 50% less than the price you'd pay at the dealership.

Traditional Keys

The car key of old is made of a single piece of steel with a series of grooves carved into it. These grooves are made to fit specific locks. They can open your locks and start your vehicle, provided that you don't replace them with a remote key or smart key. The only downside of using the traditional car key is that you have to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional key has been lost, broken or stolen, you'll have to visit a Gainesville locksmith to get a new one cut from the blank.

There are several choices to pick from based on how long it has been since you had your keys cut. Some keys are cut using mechanical machines, while others are laser-cut with security features that are enhanced.

Modern keys come with advanced features, such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or open locks. Transponder chips are a different anti-theft feature. They are incorporated into the key and communicate with your vehicle. This means that it can only effective when you're within a certain distance.

If you opt to use a traditional standard key, a locksmith could create a new key with a standard key cutting machine which can be purchased at many hardware stores. This is less expensive than using the key fob or transponder key, and you'll still be able to operate your doors, locks and trunk.

Another alternative is to have your standard car key substituted with a laser-cut version with a unique pattern. The first time these keys were introduced was in the 1990s, and are now a popular option for people who want to provide extra security to their vehicles. Laser cut keys typically contain transponder chips that are programmed to work only for your specific vehicle. If these chips are not present in your vehicle, they will not respond to the signals sent by the key.

Member since: Thursday, October 24, 2024

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