How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is essential to replace your car keys when you lose it or damage it. This will stop thieves from opening your vehicle easily.
It's also an excellent idea to have duplicate keys for your vehicle. This will help you save time and money if you need to access your vehicle in an emergency.
Keys that have a transponder chip
In the past, if you misplaced your car keys you could take it to a local locksmith or hardware store to have a new one made. You'd get an ordinary key with the cap made of plastic which contained the transponder. When you turn the ignition key the chip sends an alert to the car. The car's computer searches for that serial number to unlock or start it. If it can't locate the code, your car will not start and you won't be able to drive away.
If your car key has a chip inside it, you'll be able to tell because the key is thicker than a standard key. It may also have an black or gray head. It can be integrated into a remote or it may stay in your pocket or purse with a push button ignition. This type of key can be made to work for most cars however, they need to be programmed to work with the system of your vehicle.
Keys that have chips are more expensive than regular keys, but they provide better protection against theft. To duplicate one of these keys locksmiths require special equipment and a key that is already functioning in your vehicle. This kind of key can be altered. Before leaving your vehicle, lock all the doors and shut your windows.
A key equipped with transponder chips is an electronic microchip incorporated inside the head of the key. This is why they are often referred to as "chip" or "transponder" keys. The vehicle manufacturer programs the chips using a unique code. When nearest key cutting is put into the ignition, a transmitter inside the antenna ring emits an impulsive radio frequency energy. The transponder takes in the energy and sends the signal along with the identification code to the receiver inside the ignition.
The information is processed by the computer in the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key is used. Your car won't start in the event that the code on your transponder does not match the code that is in your ECM. This technology was developed in order to protect against auto theft by making it difficult for thieves to duplicate or copy your car keys.
Keys without transponder chips
Losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. It can take a while to locate a replacement key and program it. This is much simpler if you have a spare key. However, finding someone who can cut a car keys with the correct code can be difficult, especially in the case of modern vehicles. Most modern keys contain a chip that communicates with your car to stop theft. These chips require specialized equipment that only a dealership can utilize which is why so many people go to the dealer when they have lost their car keys.
The first step is to determine the kind of key you require. Certain older models still have mechanical keys, whereas others come with transponder chips. The latter are designed to guard against theft by communicating with the computer in the vehicle and verifying that it is a genuine key. They are also harder to duplicate, as they have laser-cut grooves that cannot be easily copied using grinders that are simple. Certain newer cars even have a smart key that acts as a remote, and does not require the traditional means of turning the ignition.
If you own a mechanical key, the majority of hardware stores will make a copy for you. The process is quite affordable and the final product will function exactly like the original. You will need to bring your vehicle's VIN number and a working key to the store, which will enable them to trace the exact contours of your key blank. Some stores also have a machine which can read the data from the immobilizer to ensure that the new key will work with your car.
If you own a transponder key, the process is more complicated. The keys have to be programmed to work and the chip has to be compatible with the codes your car is using. This is a security measure that can in preventing theft. Your car will generally not start if the chip is not properly matched. It is essential to always have a spare car key.
Keys with a key fob
Modern features, key fobs can be used to unlock doors and start vehicles with the press of the button. They communicate with the onboard computer of the vehicle via radio waves. However, they're vulnerable to security risks. It is important to secure them to prevent theft and unauthorized access. Here are some things you need to be aware of about your key fob in order to secure it from theft.
If you need a replacement or want to ensure you have a spare in case you lose it, you should visit a locksmith. They can make a laser-cut key that is compatible with your vehicle. They can also reprogram your car to recognize the new key.
You might be tempted to cut your keys at a big-box store like Lowe's or Home Depot if you're in need of help. These retailers are not automotive experts, so they cannot offer the same service as locksmiths. In addition, they often lack a proper key cutting machine for vehicles. A key fob is a unique shape that must be accurately duplicated.
Another option is to go to your local dealership, however this can be expensive. Dealerships charge fixed prices and are required to follow strict rules. In addition, they report to car companies and shareholders who expect financial gains every quarter.
To save time, you can also find key-cutting kiosks like KeyMe in various locations. These kiosks are able to cut a single, simple key on-site. More complicated keys can be sent directly to your home. The cost of this service is a fraction of what you'll pay at a dealership. This is a great option when you don't need to go back to the manufacturer of your car. Check that the key is identical to the original. If not it won't fit into the lock.
Keys with a keyless entry system
New cars are increasingly equipped with proximity keys and keyless entry. These new technologies are extremely complex and should be handled by a professional. A locksmith can explain how these systems operate and how they could help you save money. In addition the locksmith can fix your proximity key, or program it for you. This can help you save time and money.
The first step to changing your car key to determine what type you have. Older models require a standard-cut key while most modern cars have keys with transponder chip that needs to be programmed. A dealer or automotive locksmith can help you with this. You can also save money by creating an additional key by yourself and programming it. Many automakers will allow this, but you need to follow the instructions in the owner's manual.
You can also go to an enormous box retailer or a hardware store. Some of these stores have key-cutting equipment which can replicate a standard key in minutes. Select a key that is the same thickness as your original key. If you're looking to save time, consider a key-cutting kiosk such as KeyMe. This service has locations in all cities and cuts most common keys at the kiosk.
Consider having the key fob reprogrammed in case you're buying a used car. This will remove any previous owner information from your vehicle's database. This will prevent thieves from stealing the device that captures and transmits signals to the key fob. Relay crime has increased and it is possible that a stolen key fob can be used to start a different vehicle.
Locksmiths are the most suitable choice to cut car keys, since they are experts on the most common models. They can also offer other services, such as changing the key fob of a car or unlocking a locked door. These services will cost you less than a dealership but they'll require expert knowledge and experience.