3 Reasons Your Keys Cut For Cars Is Broken (And How To Repair It)
Types of Keys Cut For Cars A new car key can be expensive. Spare keys can cost hundreds of dollars from a locksmith or dealership particularly if they come with transponders and smart key fobs. The process of cutting keys is more than just forming a piece of metal however. Different types of keys require specific machinery and techniques to cut properly. Traditional Keys Traditional keys for cars are cut using an electronic key-cutting machine. The edges of the keys are designed to match pin patterns in the lock to allow the key to open the lock. Keys like this can be used in older cars that do not use security encoding. The traditional car key is cheaper to manufacture than other types of keys and is available at any hardware store or locksmith. To get a new car key first, you need to determine the kind of key you require. If you have a traditional metal key that doesn't need chip it's as easy as getting an associate copy of the original key from your local AutoZone. This can be done by selecting the correct key blank for your car's year, make and model, and then using an instrument to trace the original key's design on the blank. It takes only about a minute and is the cheapest method of getting an entirely new car key. Another alternative is to have a locksmith cut your new key. This is a bit more expensive option, however it provides additional security. Instead of cutting along the key's edge the laser is used to cut the key around its edge or down its center. This makes the key thicker and more durable, making it difficult to steal. You may not be able drive your vehicle with laser-cut keys because it does not unlock the engine. Keys for the latest models of cars have a chip or transponder. These keys require an additional programming tool in order to function, and the car will not start if it receives a wrong signal. Smart keys are another option. They behave more like remote controls, and can unlock and start the vehicle with just the touch of one button. These keys need to be programmed to match your vehicle, but are more convenient than having a regular traditional key. If you lose or are robbed of your smart key, you should contact the manufacturer of the car. Transponder Keys Transponders are more sophisticated than the conventional flat metal keys. Transponder keys are equipped with an embedded microchip in the head of plastic that transmits an identification code when used to unlock or begin the vehicle. The car will not be able to turn over if the chip is damaged or missing. It is therefore very important to not lose your transponder and store it in a safe place. car key cutting cost come with a slightly larger and different plastic head. Additionally, the head is equipped with an antenna ring on it that transmits this ID code to the car's computer. If the car matches an ID code with a valid key, it will turn off immobilizers and allow the engine run. It is a relatively new technology that has been successful at preventing thefts. While the majority of vehicles that are on the market today have this technology, a few older models do not. You should contact an auto locksmith when you need to duplicate the transponder. They will employ special equipment to duplicate the key that is already in your vehicle and then be able to program it with the computer in your car. Some car brands will let you do it yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual however, you should speak with an expert for assistance if you don't feel at ease doing it yourself. Certain car keys are more straightforward than others to duplicate. Even though they are not transponder keys, they can be duplicated by anyone who has the use of a few tools. Transponder keys require a particular device to copy. If you do lose yours you'll need to go to a locksmith such as Beishir Lock and Security that has access to this device. The locksmith is usually able to program the replacement key to work with the immobilizer system of your vehicle for a fraction of what it would cost to go to the dealership. Laser Keys A majority of the newer vehicles have a key which is thicker than the bladed keys. They can be more difficult to copy of, particularly if keys don't have any transponder chips within the keys. This makes it harder for thieves to obtain a spare and also helps to keep your vehicle more secure as it is difficult for them to start the vehicle using a simple physical key. These keys have to be cut with high-security equipment and require a licensed locksmith to perform the work. They are also referred to as laser cut keys, sidewinder keys, or flip keys. They are an excellent option to enhance the security of your car. They can be found in a variety of locksmith shops for automotive use. However they need to have the appropriate equipment to cut these keys as they require a different kind of machine. They are difficult to replicate because the cuts on them don't go all the way through the metal, as the old style bladed keys do. Instead the cuts are made using milling machines that remove the metal at an exact and precise depth. The locksmith will have to use a key code to determine the correct settings for the machine in order to create the correct duplicate. If the machine isn't set up correctly it could cause damage to your key cutting machine, or even damage the cylinders of your lock. Another reason that these keys are more difficult to make is because the keys themselves are made with a different pattern, which prevents them from working on different cars that have the same lock combination. This is similar to the way the keys that have a transponder chip inside of them must be programmed at the dealership to work with your car. These keys are usually one-piece units with an attached keyfob. They must be programmed at the dealership and usually cost a bit more than the standard key that requires the blank key or an edge-cut key cut. It is usually necessary to bring your current key with you and the dealership should have the equipment necessary to program it. A reputable auto locksmith can also do this, however the cost will be higher. Smart Keys A smart key is the most sophisticated and expensive type of car key. They are basically key fobs with built-in sensors that communicate with your vehicle through radio waves. They can lock your car and then unlock it without the need for a physical key. They can also start your car. Certain smart keys come with a built in screen which allows you to perform a variety of tasks, including navigation and music playing. These smart keys use anti-theft techniques to prevent theft. They transmit a rolling number, that the car's computer recognizes and confirms before starting the engine. The car will disable the engine if a criminal tries to open the doors or start the car with an unauthorised key. This feature helps protect the investment you've made in your car and also gives you security when you're away from it. Modern cars are becoming more and more sophisticated, which is why it's essential to know the distinctions between keys that are traditional and modern. Knowing the options when it's time to replace your key will help you make a decision that suits your requirements. If you are looking to replace your existing key we can cut a brand new one with an original key, or provide a transponder chip from the manufacturer to program a new key in your vehicle. We can cut both laser-cut and edge-cut keys, and we'll do our best to match your original key as closely as possible. We also offer a range of other automotive services including ignition repair and replacement. It's a good idea regardless of the type of key you own, to always have an extra. Losing a car key could be costly and stressful, particularly if it requires a trip to the dealership for programming or locksmith. It's best to get an extra car key before you lose it or need one replaced. Visit us today for a competitive price and fast service! We're your local, reliable auto experts.