7 Secrets About Cut Car Key That Nobody Will Share With You

Car Key Cutting Explained

Car key cutting is a lot more than just forming a piece of metal. It is a complicated procedure that guarantees security, function and long-term use of keys.

It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car or have them break through the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your car you'll need to have a replacement key cut.

Transponder Keys

If your car was constructed in the last 20 years, it is likely to have transponder chips. These microchips are located in the key's handle and send a signal to the onboard computers of your vehicle when you turn the key. The computer onboard checks the digital serial number of the chip before giving the car permission to start. This stops thieves from taking over your vehicle because they'd have to be aware of the unique serial number.

The microchip inside your car key transmits an unintentional radio signal to the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip, which transmits a code to the onboard computer of the car. The car will only begin only if it recognizes the code. This will stop the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of theft of cars.

Locksmiths who provide these services can make keys for cars that contain chips. They can also be bought at certain automotive stores, such as AutoZone. They have a huge range of keys and can help you find the appropriate one for your vehicle. They can even help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is essential for it to function.

There are also laser cut keys that are more secure than conventional flat keys. They have an cylinder for locking that is much harder to pick, and they can only be duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or special software. This technology is most common in luxury cars, but is now available in a wide range of low-cost models.

Another type of car key that's hard to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. The keys contain a resistor that's black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to one of fifteen possible values to prevent it from starting a vehicle it's not intended to. They are expensive and require a key programming machine, which is only available through certain locksmiths.

VATS Keys

Before the advent of transponder keys and cars with built-in computer chips to control the ignition of the car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a key that has a resistor embedded in it to confirm that the right key was used to start the car. The VATS pellet in black that is located in the middle of the VATS Key isn't a smart chip as found on most modern keys. It is simply carbon or a block that is sized to provide an electrical resistance.

GM used 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets and attached them to key blades so that when the key is turned on, a coded message is sent to the 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 starts to run. This doesn't make a car secure from burglary however, it can deter a thief for at least fifteen to twenty minutes.

Unfortunately, after a lot of use, the VATS module in your car can start to wear out. Each time the key is inserted into the ignition, it moves two very small wires within the ignition, and, over time, the wires can start to break. Once enough of the wires break the signal to the module is lost and it won't start the car.

You can resolve this issue at home by decoding your VATS key. You'll need a multimeter and a chart to find out the resistance value of your key, but it's not difficult at all. You can find the resistance value by putting one of the leads on the prongs made of metal on both sides of your key.

This is a great way to test a brand new key and determine if it works in your car. Make sure you remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, or else the new key could have an incorrect VATS number and will not work in your vehicle.

Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys

Key fobs of today do more than just unlock or start cars. Many of them have advanced features that many owners aren't aware of. They can be used as a security device or as a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and make chirping sounds to aid in locating your vehicle when you're in a hurry or activate it by pressing the button. This is a lot more features than you get from a traditional keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace because of their additional functions. They also require to be programmed at the dealer.

In fact, some dealers cost upwards of $100 to replace a single smart key fob. It's a huge price to pay for a device that is often tossed around in purses and pockets where it can be damaged, dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Fortunately certain automakers have come up with ways to safeguard smart key fobs from common types of electronic threats like relay attacks. These are usually utilized in conjunction with remote-start hacks that allow thieves to gain access to the settings of your vehicle by sending an untrue signal from a nearby transmitter.

One method to safeguard a smart emergency key cutting fob is to store it in a metal case or use a specially designed RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from a protective case each time you need to use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.

Certain policies that are more recent like auto club memberships and extended warranties will pay for a replacement fob or reimburse you in the event that it is lost. You can also avoid paying new-car dealership fees by having your fob copied by a Locksmith key Cutting or hardware store that offers key-fob-cloning.

For the majority of drivers, the decision to purchase an additional key fob is contingent on the importance of your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. Always keep a spare car key cutting key or fob on hand in case you lose yours. If you do need to purchase a replacement, Batteries Plus has a large selection of fobs to fit most cars and trucks. Additionally, we provide a quick, convenient service that costs roughly 50% less than the price you'd spend at the dealership.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys for cars are a single length of metal with grooves cut into it to fit a specific lock. These keys will unlock your locks and open the car, assuming you haven't exchanged them to a smart or remote key. The only downside of using a traditional car key is that you have to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional key has been damaged, lost or stolen, you'll need to visit the Gainesville locksmith to have an alternative one made from the blank.

Based on the amount of time that has passed since the last time you got your keys cut, there are several different alternatives to select from when it comes to having another copy. Certain keys cut near me now utilize mechanical cutting machines to make copies, while others use laser-cut keys that are made with security features in mind.

Some of these advanced features that come with the modern types of keys include encryption as well as other security mechanisms. Encryption makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or take locks. Other security features to prevent theft include transponder chips that are embedded in the key to connect with your vehicle and allow it to work only when it's within the range of your car.

If you choose to make use of a traditional key, your locksmith can make a new key with an ordinary cutter machine, which can be purchased from a variety of hardware stores. This is less expensive than using a key fob or a transponder key, and you'll be able to use your locks, doors and trunk.

Another option is to have your standard car key replaced with a laser-cut version with a unique pattern. These keys were first introduced in the 1990s and are a popular choice for those who wish to secure their automobiles. Keys made of lasers are typically equipped with transponder chips that are programmed to only work with your vehicle. If these chips are not present in your vehicle, it won't respond to the signals transmitted by the key.