How to Get a Car Key Cut
If you lose or damage the car key It's a good idea to replace it as soon as you can. This will prevent thieves from starting your car easily.
It is also recommended to have duplicate keys for the vehicle. This will save time and money if you have to access your vehicle at the time of need.
Keys equipped with transponder chips
In the past, if one lost your car keys it was possible to go to an area hardware or locksmith store to have a replacement one made. You'd receive the standard key, which had a plastic cap that contained the transponder. The chip sends a signal to the car whenever you turn the key into the ignition. The car's computer then looks for the serial number in order to unlock or start it. If the computer is unable to locate the code, it will not start your car, and you won't have any way to leave the car.
You can tell whether your car key has chips because they are thicker. It may also sport a grey or black head. It can be connected to a remote or it could be kept in your purse or pocket with a push button ignition. This kind of key is able to work on most vehicles however, they must be programmed according to your vehicle's system.
Keys that have chips are more expensive than regular keys, but they provide better protection against theft. In order to clone one of these keys, locksmiths require specialized equipment and keys that are already working in your car. However, getting car key cut of key is still vulnerable to tampering. Before leaving your vehicle, you should secure all doors and close the windows.
A key with a transponder chip is an electronic microchip incorporated into the head of the key. This is the reason they are often called "chip" or "transponder" keys. The manufacturer of the vehicle programs the chips with a unique code. When the key is placed in the ignition, the antenna ring emits burst radio frequency energy. The transponder chip takes this energy and sends out an identification code to the receiver in the ignition.
The vehicle's computer then processes this data to ensure that only genuine keys are used. Your car will not start if the code on the transponder does not match the one in your ECM. This technology was developed in order to protect against auto theft by making it impossible for thieves to duplicate or copy the car key.
Keys without transponder chips
When you lose your car keys it could be an enormous inconvenience. You need to find a replacement key and have it programmed, which could be a long and tedious process. If you have a spare, this is a lot easier. Finding someone who can cut a key with the correct code can be difficult particularly for cars that are modern. This is because most modern keys include a chip in them that communicates with the car in order to prevent theft. These chips require special equipment that only a dealership can utilize and that's why a lot of people visit a dealer if they have lost their car keys.
The first step is to determine the type of key you require. Some old models still have mechanical keys, whereas others are equipped with transponder chips. Transponder chips are made to protect against theft, by connecting to the vehicle's computer and verifying that it's a genuine key. They are also more difficult to duplicate since they are laser-cut and cannot be easily copied with an ordinary grinder. Some modern vehicles include an intelligent key that functions like a remote and doesn't require the traditional means of turning the ignition.
The majority of hardware stores will create copies of your mechanical key. The process is relatively affordable, and the end result will work just as well as your original. Bring your vehicle's VIN as well as a working copy of your key to the shop so they can trace the exact contours. Some stores even have a machine that can read the information from the immobilizer, ensuring that the new key will work with your vehicle.
If, however, you have keys with a transponder chip it will be more complicated. The keys have to be programmed in order to function, and the chip needs to match the codes used by your vehicle. This is a security measure that can in preventing theft. Your car will generally not start when the chip isn't matched. It is crucial to always have a spare car key.
Keys with a key fob
Key fobs are a contemporary convenience that can open your doors and start your car with the press of a button. They communicate with the computer onboard of the vehicle by using radio waves. They could, however, be vulnerable to security threats. It's important to secure them to stop theft and unauthorized access. Here are some things you should be aware of about your key fob to protect it from vulnerabilities.
If you require a replacement or want to be sure you have one in case you lose it, you should visit a locksmith. They can design keys that are laser-cut and compatible with your car. They'll also be able to modify the car's software so that it will recognize the new key.
If you're in a hurry you might be tempted to go to a large box store like Home Depot or Lowe's to have your key cut. However, the reality is these retailers aren't experts in the field of automotive, so they can't offer you the same service as a real locksmith would provide. They are often not equipped with the right key cutting equipment for automobiles. A key fob is a unique shape that must be precisely copied.
You could visit a local dealer however this is more expensive. Dealerships must adhere to policies and have set prices. They also are accountable to car companies and shareholders who expect financial gains every quarter.
To speed up the process, you can also find key-cutting kiosks, such as KeyMe in various locations. KeyMe kiosks can make a simple, one-time key right on the spot. More complex keys can be sent directly to your home. This service costs only a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealer. If you're not in a hurry this could be a great alternative to returning to your manufacturer. Make sure that the key is the same size as the original. Otherwise, it won't fit in the lock.
Keys with keyless entry system
Proximity keys and keyless entry systems are gaining popularity in the latest cars. However these new technologies can be complicated and should be handled by a get a professional handling them. A locksmith can explain how these systems function and how they could help you save money. Additionally to that, a locksmith can fix your proximity key or program it for you. This will save you time and money.
The first step is determining what type of car key you have. Cars with older models only require a standard cut key, but most modern vehicles include transponder chips that need to be programmed. A dealer or automotive locksmith can help you with this. You can also save money by constructing a spare key by yourself and programming it. Many automakers will allow this, but you need to follow the guidelines in the owner's manual.
Another option is to go to a hardware store or big box retailer. Some of these stores have key-cutting equipment that can duplicate a standard key in a matter of minutes. Be sure to select the right blank key that matches the size of your original key. Try an automated kiosk that cuts keys, like KeyMe, if you want to save time. The service is available in most cities and cuts the most commonly used keys right at the kiosk.
Think about having the key fob resettled if you're buying a used car. This will remove previous owner data from your vehicle's database. This will prevent thieves from stealing the device that captures and transmits signals to the key fob. Relay crime is increasing and it's possible a stolen key fob can be used to start the engine of another vehicle.
Locksmiths are the best option for cutting car keys because they have all the information about the most well-known models. They can also offer other services, like changing the programming of a car's key fob or unlocking a door that is locked. These services are less than a dealership however, they require a lot of knowledge and experience.