Types of Keys Cut For Cars
The cost of a new car keys isn't cheap. Keys for spares can cost hundreds of dollars from a locksmith or dealership, especially if they include transponders and smart key fobs.
The process of cutting keys is more than just shaping an object of metal However. Different types of keys require special equipment and methods to cut them correctly.
Traditional Keys
The key-cutting machines that are mechanical are used to cut traditional car keys. The edges of the keys are designed to align with pin patterns in the lock, allowing keys to unlock the lock. Keys like this can be found in older cars which do not feature security encoding. Traditional car keys are cheaper to make than most other keys and can be purchased at any locksmith store or hardware store.
The first step to get an entirely new car key is to identify what kind of car key you'll need. If you have an old-fashioned key made of metal without a chip in it, you can simply have an AutoZone associate create a duplicate of the original key. This is accomplished by selecting the correct key blank for the year, make and model of your vehicle and then using a key-cutting machine to trace the outline of the original key on the blank. This process takes just a few minutes and is the most affordable method of getting an entirely new car key.
Another alternative is to have a locksmith cut your new key. mobile key cutting near me is a bit more expensive option, however it also offers additional security. Rather than simply cutting along the edges of the key, a laser cutter can be employed to cut around the edge of the key or in its middle. This makes the key stronger and stronger, making it harder to steal. However, you might not be able access your vehicle using a laser-cut key since it isn't able to unlock the ignition.
Newer car models 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 wrong signal is detected. Smart keys are an alternative. They function more like remote controls, and can unlock and start the vehicle with just the touch of a button. The keys have to be programmed for your vehicle but are far more convenient than a traditional key. If you lose or steal your smart key, you must contact the manufacturer of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponders are more sophisticated than traditional flat metal keys. The plastic head of a transponder key has a microchip in it which transmits an identification code to the car when it is used to unlock and start the vehicle. If the chip is damaged or damaged it will not recognize the key and will refuse to turn over. It is therefore very important to ensure that you don't lose your transponder and store it in a safe place.
You can identify the transponder key by the fact that it has an a little different and larger head of plastic than the standard key. The head also has an antenna ring that can be used to transmit the ID code to the car's computer. If the car can match the ID code to a valid key, then it will turn off the immobilizer and allow the engine to continue to run.
This is a relatively recent form of anti-theft tech that has proven successful in preventing thefts. While the majority of cars available today have this technology, some older models do not.
If you require duplicate keys for your transponder the best option is to call an auto locksmith near you. They have specialized equipment that allows them to duplicate keys from their inventory and program it to work with the computer in your car. Certain car manufacturers can do this by following the instructions in their owner's manual, however, you should always consult a professional if you are not comfortable doing it yourself.
Certain car keys are more straightforward than others to duplicate. Although they aren't transponder keys, they can still be easily duplicated by anyone who has a few simple tools. However, a transponder key requires a special tool in order to be copied. If you lose yours, then you'll need to visit a locksmith such as Beishir Lock and Security who has this equipment. In the majority of instances, the locksmith can have your replacement key made and programmed to work with the immobilizer in your vehicle at a fraction of the cost of going to the dealership.
Laser Keys
Many newer vehicles come with a key which is thicker than the bladed keys. They can be more difficult to duplicate of, particularly if the keys don't have any transponder chips inside them. This makes it more difficult for thieves to get spare keys and also makes your car more secure since it's difficult for them to start the vehicle with a simple physical key.
They must be cut with high-security equipment and require a licensed locksmith to do the work. These keys are also known as laser cut keys, sidewinder keys, or flip keys. They are a great option to enhance the security of your car. They are also available at many locksmith shops for automobiles However, be sure that they have the right tools as these types of keys have distinct lock cylinders and require a special type of machine to cut keys.
They are difficult to replicate because the cuts on them aren't a full length through the metal, like the old style bladed keys do. Instead the cuts are made using milling machines that remove the metal with the exact and measured depth. A key code is used by the locksmith to determine the settings of the machine in order to create the duplicate. If the machine isn't set correctly it could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys, or even damage lock cylinders.
These keys are also difficult to make because they have a pattern that is different. This prevents them from working with different cars that have the same lock combination. This is similar to how keys with a transponder in them need to be programmed by a dealer in order to work on your car.
They are typically one-piece units with the keyfob included. These have to be programmed by the dealership and typically cost a bit higher than the traditional key, which requires the blank key or an edge-cut key cut. It is usually necessary to bring your current key and the dealer should have the equipment necessary to program it. A reputable automotive locksmith can also complete the process for you however it will usually cost a bit more.
Smart Keys Keys
A smart key is the most sophisticated and expensive type of car key. These are key fob remotes with built-in sensors that communicate with your vehicle through radio waves. They can lock and unlock your vehicle without the need of an actual key and also start your engine. Certain smart keys come with built-in screens that allows you to perform a variety of functions, such as navigation and music playing.
These smart keys also use anti-theft technology in order to stop theft. They transmit a rolling number, that the car's computer recognizes and validates prior to beginning the engine. If a thief attempts to unlock the doors or start the engine using an invalid key, the car will trigger the alarm and disable the engine. This feature can help protect the investment you've made in your vehicle and gives you peace of mind when you're away from it.
Modern cars are more complex than ever before, and it's essential to know the distinctions between traditional keys and modern ones. Knowing what options you have when it's time to replace your key will help you make the right choice for your requirements.
If you want to replace your existing key you can either cut a duplicate using the original key or a transponder supplied by the manufacturer to program a key into your vehicle. We can cut keys with lasers or edge-cutting and will do our best match the original key. We provide a variety of automotive services, including ignition repair and replacement.
It's a good idea regardless of the kind of key you have, to always have a spare. The loss of your car key could be stressful, and expensive if you have to visit the dealer for programming or call locksmith. It is best to have an extra car key before you lose it or need one to be replaced. We offer competitive prices and quick service, so make sure to stop by today! We are your local, reliable expert in automotive.