Keys Replacement For Cars
You can get a replacement key for a mechanical one at any hardware shop. However, the key will have to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
Smart keys are more complex and require a trip to the dealer to connect them to your vehicle. These types of keys are typically expensive however some insurance companies cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase car keys that are purely mechanical, like the ones you place in an ignition lock cylinder and turn to start your vehicle. If your vehicle is equipped with one of these, it's relatively inexpensive to replace the fob and key (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can create an original key for less than you would purchase from a dealership. You can also ask a neighbour or friend who is able to program transponder keys (which are cheaper than the factory keys) to cut you a spare and program it. It is essential to have a spare since modern cars won't be able to start when a key that isn't programmed with the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys are like mechanical keys but contain an electronic chip inside the base. The chip communicates with the computer system in your car. Your car will accept the code that is on the chip, but will not start if you try to use another code.
If your spare key is equipped with chip, you'll need to take it to a dealership to have it programmed. The dealership will require an equipment that is specifically designed for cutting and programming the key. key replacement car are only available at specific dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith will have the equipment needed to create a laser-cut key with a transponder.
Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, particularly if you need a spare. You could try reprogramming your fob by yourself if you're missing the key shank and have a functional replacement fob, but it can be difficult and time-consuming. You're better off going to a dealer if you've lost both the fob and the key.
Other kinds of keys for cars require more specialized skills to replace. They include flip keys and smart keys. These are more complicated and must be replaced by the dealer. Key fobs can be operated by proximity sensors or a door opener with a spring loaded mechanism.
Transponder Keys
If your car is built in the recent 10 years or so it's likely to use transponder keys. The keys contain a microchip within the key itself as well as an internal receiver in your car that are both programmed to communicate with one another to start the car.
Transponder keys are a fantastic method to deter theft since they require two parts for the car to start - the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver that is connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer device present, the car will not start and it is not possible to connect hotwire.
These key chips have a unique serial number for your vehicle. When the key is inserted into your ignition, the serial number is then sent to the immobilizer of the car and then verified to make sure it matches up the number, which allows the engine to run. The only thing that could be a hindrance to this security feature is a special device that is able to detect the chip and match it with another car.
You'll have to find a locksmith who has the equipment to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service, however their overhead makes them more expensive than an independent locksmith.
The process of getting a new car keys that comes with a chip it can be a very complicated process. The key has to be cut on a specific machine to ensure that it has the proper tracks which can later be used to program the key to your car. This requires special software and the correct key cutter to do it correctly.
Most auto parts stores can copy some of the less complicated keys for chips, but you'll need to be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure the correct information is programmed into the key. Many people make a mistake by going to their dealer in search of an exact copy of a chip key only to end up paying high prices.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred to as a sidewinder key due to the distinctive winding cut on the shank of the key. They provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. Because it requires specialized equipment to duplicate these keys, they're a fantastic deterrent against auto-theft.
Like transponder keys, they feature embedded chips that stop unauthorised copies of keys from starting your vehicle. They have a unique number that needs to be programmed into your car to unlock it and begin it. This additional level of security will guard your investment and prevent 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 carved out on the key. They also have a thicker key shaft that is an indication that it's not a regular car key. Locksmiths usually employ a milling machine to cut these keys. This tool is similar to a drill, and it's designed to remove metal at precise angles.
These are some of the most secure keys you can get for your car, as they're very hard to replicate and can only be cut by the dealer or a certified locksmith. In contrast to traditional keys, they're made using a small piece of steel that is made into a code, and then cut using a laser at the factory. This kind of key can withstand a lot wear and tear and is among the best options for protecting your vehicle.
The key can be folded in the fob, or it can pop out by pressing a button. These keys are used in German cars and offer an extra layer of protection against car thieves. They also make it very difficult for a thief to pick or pick-lock your car, as the cylinder is extremely tough and difficult to break into.
Smart Keys
Smart keys communicate with the vehicle using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the traditional single piece of carved metal. This means they have a small chip that has an encrypted code that is unique to each key. When you open your car's doors or open the trunk the key sends a signal to the car's onboard computer. The computer then triggers the correct frequency and allows you to connect to your car and begin it.
The smart key's chip has a number of security features that protect against theft. First, the key emits a very low-frequency signal that can't be detected by any receiver other than your vehicle. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will display another one that is an exclusive sequence that only your car can understand. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using an electronic pulse generator to "fool the system" and perform the work on other vehicles.
In addition to locking and opening the car, some smart keys come with additional features such as storing specific preferences for drivers remotely opening windows, the sunroof, and many more. These functions can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button or, in some cases, by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Most of these key fobs come with buttons that open the doors for themselves however some come with an additional method to open them with a slot or by placing the dead key in a spot on the dashboard, where it houses an inductive coil that is able to transfer energy. Some even come with an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade concealed in the key to allow this.
Replacing a smart lock typically requires a visit the dealership, where they will either have the replacement on hand or order it for you. They'll also have to program the new key to recognize your vehicle. You can visit a locksmith to get your new key fob programmed and replaced. Locksmiths may charge more than the dealer, but they'll be able to finish the job more quickly and for less.