Car Key Cutting Explained
Cutting a car key is more than just bending a piece of metal. It is a complex procedure that ensures security, functionality and the longevity of keys.
It is not unusual to lose your car key or even break it in the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your vehicle you'll require a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips will likely be installed in cars built within the past 20 years. These chips are tiny microchips inside the handle of your key that transmit a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer whenever you use it. The computer in the mobile car key cutting checks the serial number digitally of the chip before giving the car permission to begin. This stops thieves from stealing your car since they'd need to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip in the key transmits a low-level signal the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip which then transmits instructions to the onboard computer of the car. The car will recognize the code and only allow it to start if it is the correct one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods to steal cars.
Locksmiths who offer these services can make keys for cars with chips. They are also available at certain automotive stores like AutoZone. They have a huge range of keys and can help you find the appropriate one for your car. They can help you program your car's chip which is needed to operate the device.
There are also laser cut keys that are more secure than traditional flat keys. They have a lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick, and can only be duplicated with expensive Laser key cutting (linkagogo.trade) machines or special software. This technology is more prevalent in luxury vehicles, but it is now being used in many affordable models of automobiles as well.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different type of key that's difficult to duplicate. They come with a resistor black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of 15 possible values to prevent it from starting a vehicle that's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a specific key programming machine that can only be located at certain locksmiths.
Keys to VATS
Before the advent of transponder keys and cars equipped with computer chips to control the car's ignition, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a key with an internal resistor to ensure that the correct key was used to start the car. The VATS black pellet that is located in the middle of the VATS key isn't a chip like those found on modern smart keys, it is simply a piece of carbon that is sized appropriately to have a specific electrical resistance value.
GM used 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and attached them to the blade of the key so that when the key is turned in the ignition the coded signal is sent to the module. If the signal matches that of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in the starter circuit will be activated and the engine will begin to run. This doesn't make a vehicle theft proof however it will delay the thief by at least 15 to 20 minutes.
Unfortunately, after a significant amount of use, the VATS module in your car could start to wear out. Each time a key is inserted into the ignition, it moves two very small wires inside the ignition and with time, the wires could start to break. Once enough of the wires are broken the signal to the module is not received and it will not start the car.
The good news is that you can fix this issue yourself by decoding your VATS key. You'll require a multimeter as well as a chart to find out the resistance value of your key, but it's not that difficult. All you need to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter on the metal prongs that are sticking out on both sides of the key, then read the ohm meter's display to find out the resistance of your motorcycle key cutting.
This can also be a good method to test a new key to determine whether it works in your vehicle. Be sure to remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, or else the new key may have an incorrect VATS value and may not function in your cheap car key cutting near me.
Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys
Today's key fobs do more than just unlock or start cars. They often have advanced features that most owners aren't aware of. They can be used as a security gadget or as a theft deterrent. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, make sounding sounds to help locate your car in a parking space or let you summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your smartphone. This is more than you'd think of from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace because of their additional functions. They also have to be programmed by a dealer.
Some dealers will charge up to $100 for one smart fob. That's a lot to pay for a device that spends a lot of its time snagging around in purses and pockets, where it can be easily dropped, damaged, or exposed to moisture and extreme temperatures. Certain automakers have devised methods to shield smart key fobs 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 through the transmission of a fake signal another transmitter nearby.
One method to safeguard the key fob's RFID is to store it in a metal case or use an RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. However, the necessity of removing the key fob from its protective case every time you need to use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.
Fortunately, some newer car-insurance policies, auto club memberships, and extended warranty coverages will pay for the cost of replacing a fob or reimburse you for a lost fob. You can also avoid paying dealer fees by having your fob cloned at a hardware or locksmith store that offers key-fob-cloning services.
For the majority of drivers who are buying an additional key fob is contingent on the importance of your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. In any event you should have an extra fob or key in case you lose yours. If you have to purchase a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a large selection of fobs to fit the majority of cars and trucks. We also offer a quick, convenient service that costs roughly 50% less than what you'd spend at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys are a single piece of metal with grooves cut into it to fit a specific lock. They can unlock your locks and start your car, assuming you haven't replaced them with the remote key or smart key. The only disadvantage of using a traditional key is that it must be physically put into the ignition in order to start the car. If your key from the past is lost, damaged or stolen, you'll need to visit the Gainesville locksmith to get an alternative one cut from the blank.
There are several options to choose from depending on how long it's been since you've cut your keys. Certain keys are cut using mechanical machines, while others are laser-cut with security features that are enhanced.
Modern keys have advanced features, such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes sure that only the right key is used to start your vehicle, making it more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Transponder chips are an additional anti-theft feature. They are embedded in the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This makes it only function only when you're within certain distance.
If you choose to use a traditional key, your locksmith can make a new key with the standard cutter machine that can be bought at 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.
Another alternative is to have the traditional car keys substituted with a laser-cut version that has a unique pattern. These keys were first introduced in the early 1990s and are a popular option for those looking to protect their vehicles. Laser cut keys typically come with transponder chips that are designed to work only for your specific vehicle. If these chips aren't present in your vehicle, it will not respond to the signals generated by the key.