Seven Reasons To Explain Why Cut Car Key Is So Important
Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is much more than just forming an object of metal. It is a complex process that guarantees security, efficiency and long-term use of the keys.
It is not uncommon to lose your car keys or even break it in the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your car you'll require a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are likely to be fitted in vehicles built in the last 20 years. These chips are tiny microchips located in the key's handle which transmit an electronic signal to the car's onboard computer whenever you use it. The computer in the car examines the serial number digitally of the chip prior to allowing the car to begin. This stops theft of vehicles since thieves need to know your unique serial number to be able to steal it.
The microchip in the key sends a low-level signal the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip, which then transmits a code to the car's onboard computer. The car will recognize this code and will only allow it to start when the key is the correct one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods to steal cars.
Locksmiths who offer these services can create keys for cars with chips. Some car dealers, like AutoZone sell them. These stores offer a wide selection of keys, and can help you find the right one for your vehicle. They can assist you in programming the chip in your vehicle, which is required to operate the device.
laser car key cutting near me (http://www.annunciogratis.net/) cut keys are more secure than flat keys. They are more secure than flat keys due to having locks that are harder to pick. They are only duplicated with expensive laser key cutting equipment, or with specialized software. This technology is most common in high-end vehicles but is now accessible in a wide range of low-cost models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different kind of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys feature a black resistor on the key blade that is programmed with one of fifteen possible values to stop them from starting a vehicle that it's not meant to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a specific key programming device that can only be found at some locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys or cars that had computer chips built in to control the ignition, GM used a system called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses a key with an internal resistor to verify that the correct key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet black in the center of the VATS key isn't a chip like those used in modern smart keys, it's simply a block of carbon that is sized appropriately to have an electrical resistance that is specific to.
GM used 15 different resistances for VATS pellets and connected them to key blades in a way that, when the key was turned in the ignition a coded message is sent to the module. If the signal matches that of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in starter circuit will activate and the engine will begin to run. This doesn't make a car secure from burglary however, it can deter thieves for at least 15 to twenty minutes.
After a lot of usage the VATS module could begin to wear out. The two wires that connect the ignition are moved every time the key is inserted. As time passes the wires could begin to break. Once enough wires break the signal to the module gets lost and the module won't be able to start the car.
You can solve this issue at home by decoding your VATS key. You'll require a multimeter and a chart to find out the resistance value of your key, but it's not difficult at all. You can determine the resistance value by putting one of the leads on the prongs of metal on both sides of your key.
This method is also a good way to test the new key to determine whether it will work in your vehicle. Be sure to remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, otherwise the new key may have an incorrect VATS value and may not work in your car.
Smart Key Fobs
Key fobs today do more than simply unlock or start the car. They often have advanced features that a lot of owners aren't aware of. They can be employed as a security tool or as a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and make chirping sounds to assist you in finding your car in a lot, or allow you to activate it by pressing a button. This is a lot more functionality than you get from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace because of their extra functionality. They also require to be programmed at the dealer.
In fact, some dealers charge upwards of $100 to replace a single smart key fob. It's a high price to pay for a product that is often tossed around in purses and pockets in the event that it gets damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Certain automakers have developed strategies to shield smart key fobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. These are often used in combination with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to access the settings of your vehicle by sending false signals from a nearby transmitter.
One way to protect a smart key fob is to put it in a metal case or use a specially designed RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from its case that is protected each time you want to make use of it is a hassle and a detriment to the efficiency of the technology.
Certain policies that are more recent like auto key cutting club memberships and extended warranties will pay for an additional fob or reimburse you in the event that it's lost. You can also save money on new car dealer fees and have your fob cut at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store who offers key fob cloning.
For most drivers who are buying an additional key fob is contingent on how important your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. In any event it is advisable to keep an extra key or fob handy just in case you lose it. If you do need to purchase a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a wide selection of fobs for the majority of cars and trucks. Plus, our quick and efficient service is 50% less than what you would pay at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
The car key of old is made of a single piece of steel with a series of grooves cut into it. These grooves are designed to fit specific locks. They can unlock your locks and start your car, assuming you don't replace them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only drawback to using the traditional car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional key has been lost, broken or stolen, you'll need to visit an Gainesville locksmith to get an alternative one cut from the blank.
Depending on how long has passed since the last time you got your keys cut there are a variety of options to pick from when it comes to having another copy made. Some keys use mechanical cutting machines to make copies, while others use laser-cut keys made with security features in mind.
Some of these advanced features that are included in modern types of keys include encryption as well as other anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or open locks. Transponder chips are another anti-theft feature. They are embedded into the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This makes it only function only when you're within a specific distance.
If you decide to use a traditional key, your locksmith key cutting can make an entirely new key using an ordinary cutter machine, which can be purchased from most hardware stores. This is cheaper than using a key fob or a transponder key, and you'll be able to operate your doors, locks and trunk.
You could also replace your traditional car keys with a laser-cut version that has an unique pattern. These keys were first introduced in the 1990s and are an increasingly popular choice for those who wish to secure their automobiles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chips that are programmed to work only with your vehicle. If these chips are not present in your vehicle, it will not respond to the signals generated by the key.