Car Key Cutting Explained
Car key cutting is more than just forming an object of metal. It is a complex process that ensures safety, functionality and long-term use of keys.
It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car or have them break through the lock. You will need a new car key in order to ensure that you can drive your car at all times.
Transponder Keys
If your car was constructed in the last 20 years, it is likely that it has transponder chips. These microchips are tiny inside the key's handle which transmit an electronic signal to the car's onboard computer when you use it. The computer in the car examines the serial number of the chip before allowing the car to begin. This prevents car thieves from taking over your vehicle because they'd have to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip inside the key transmits a low-level signal the car's receiver. The radio signal activates microchip, which then transmits an informational code to the car's onboard computer. The car will be able to recognize this code and only allow it to start only if the key is the correct one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.
Car keys with chips can be made by an authorized locksmith who offers these services. Some car dealers, like AutoZone offer them. These stores have a wide range of keys and will help you get the right one for your car. They can even help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is essential to use it.
Laser cut car key cutting and programming are more secure than flat keys. These keys have a lock cylinder that is much harder to pick, and can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting equipment or specialized software. This type of technology is typically found in high-end vehicles, however it is now accessible in a wide range of low-cost cars as well.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is a different type of key that is difficult to duplicate. These keys have a black resistor on the key blade that is programmed with one of 15 potential values to prevent them from starting a car that it's not intended to. These keys are more expensive to buy and require a special key programming device that can only be found at a few locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before the days of transponder keys and cars with built-in computer chips to control the ignition of a car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS uses a key with a resistor embedded in it to verify that the correct key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet that is black that is located in the middle of the VATS Key isn't an electronic chip that is like those found on most modern keys. It is merely a block or carbon that is sized to provide an electrical resistance value.
GM used 15 different resistances for VATS pellets and connected them to key blades so that when the key was turned on, the key blades transmit a coded message to 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 begins to run. This doesn't make a car burglar-proof however, it can deter thieves for at least fifteen to twenty minutes.
Unfortunately, after a lot of usage, the VATS module in your car may start to wear out. Each time the key is inserted into the ignition it moves two very small wires inside the ignition, and with time, the wires could begin to break. Once enough of the wires break then the signal to the module is lost and the module won't be able to start the car.
You can solve this problem at home by decoding your VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance value of a key by using the multimeter. You can determine the resistance value by putting one of the leads on the metal prongs on both sides of your key.
This is a great method to test a new key and see whether it works in your vehicle. Be sure to remove the key from the ignition before you begin testing it, as the new key could have an incorrect VATS value and not work in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys
Key fobs today can do more than unlock or start cars. They also function as a security device and a theft deterrent, with many of them incorporating advanced features that the owners might not even know about. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, make chirping sounds to help you locate your car in a parking space or let you summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your phone. This is a lot more functionality than you obtain from a traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace because of their extra functions. They also need to be programmed by a dealer.
In fact, some dealers charge up to $100 to replace a single smart key fob. It's a huge price to pay for a product that is frequently tossed around in purses and pockets where it can be damaged, dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Certain automakers have devised methods to protect smart key fobs from common electronic threats, including relay attacks. These are usually utilized in conjunction with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to access your vehicle's settings through a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.
To secure a smart card, you can store it in a metal case or use an RFID blocking case. This will block the transmission of these signals. However, having to remove the key fob from its protective case every time you 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 cover the cost of replacing a fob or pay for the loss of a fob. You can also save money on new car dealer fees and have your fob cut at the hardware store or locksmith that offers key-fob cloning services.
The decision of whether to purchase an additional fob is dependent on the importance of your car's keyless start and entry functions. It is always advisable to keep a spare fob or key on hand in the event that you lose yours. Batteries Plus offers a large choice of replacement fobs that fit on most cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and efficient service is 50% less than the price you'd pay at the dealership.
Traditional Keys
The car key of old is a single piece of metal with a series grooves carved into it. These grooves are designed to fit specific locks. These keys can open your locks and open the car, as long as you don't swap them out to a smart or remote key. The only disadvantage of using a traditional car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your key from the past is damaged, lost or stolen, you'll have to visit an Gainesville locksmith to have an alternative one cut from the blank.
Based on the amount of time that has passed since the last time you had your keys cut, there are several different alternatives to choose from when it comes to having another copy made. Certain keys utilize mechanical cutting machines to create copies, while others employ laser-cut keys that are made with security features in mind.
Modern keys are equipped with advanced features such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption ensures that only the right key is used to start your car, making it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick locks. Other anti-theft features include transponder chips, which are incorporated into the key to communicate with your car and make it work only when it's within the range of your car.
If you opt to use a traditional, standard key, a locksmith could create a new key using a standard key cutter machine, which is available at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than using an electronic key fob or transponder key, and you'll be able to operate your locks, doors and trunk.
You could also replace your traditional car keys with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. These keys first came out in the 1990s, and are now a popular option for people who want to add extra protection to their vehicles. Laser cut keys are usually equipped with transponder chips programmed to work only with your vehicle. If the chips aren't present in your vehicle, it won't respond to the signals emanating from the key, and will not start.