Types of Keys Cut For Cars
A new car key can be costly. Keys for spares could cost hundreds, if purchased from a locksmith or a dealership, especially if they include transponders and smart key fobs.
However the process of cutting keys involves more than just cutting a piece of metal. To cut various types of keys, specialized equipment and techniques are required.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys are cut with an electronic key-cutting machine. The edges of the key are designed to be aligned with pin patterns inside the lock, allowing keys to unlock the lock. These kinds of keys can be found in older cars that do not use security encoding. Keys for traditional cars are cheaper to make than most other keys and can be purchased at any locksmith or hardware store.
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 a chip and is as easy as having an associate copy the original key from your local AutoZone. They can do this by selecting the correct key blank for your car's year, make and model and then using a key cutting machine to trace the original key's design on the blank. This process takes only some minutes and is the cheapest way to obtain a replacement car key.
A locksmith can cut your new key. This is a slightly more expensive option, but it also offers additional security. Instead of cutting along the edge of the key, a laser is used to cut the key around its edge or down its center. This makes the key thicker and stronger, making it harder to steal. However, you might not be able access your vehicle with a laser-cut key, since it isn't able to unlock the ignition.
The latest models of cars have keys that come with a transponder or other type of chip. These types of keys need an additional programming tool in order to function and the car will not start if it receives the incorrect signal. Another option is to have a smart key that is more like a remote and can open the car and then start it by pressing a push button. These keys must be programmed for your car but are far more convenient than a standard key. If you lose or take your smart key, you should contact the manufacturer of the car.
Transponder Keys
A transponder keys is more sophisticated than a traditional flat metal key. cheap key cutting are equipped with an embedded microchip in the head of the plastic that transmits an ID code when they are used to unlock or start the car. If the chip is damaged or damaged it will not recognize the key and will refuse to turn. This is why it is vital to keep your transponder key safe and not lose it.
Transponder keys come with a slightly larger and different plastic head. Also, the head has an antenna ring on it which is used to transmit this ID code to the car's computer. If the car is able to match the ID code with a valid key, then it will disable the immobilizer and allow the engine to run.
This is a relatively new form of anti-theft technology, which has proven successful in its goal to prevent thefts. While the majority of vehicles that are on the market today have this technology, a few older vehicles do not.
When you need duplicate keys for a transponder, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith near you. They will employ specialized equipment to clone an existing key for your vehicle, and then have it programmed to work with the computer in the car. Certain brands of cars will allow you to do this yourself by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual however, you should speak with an expert for assistance if you're not confident doing it yourself.
Certain keys for cars are easier than others to copy. Even though they are not transponder keys, they can still be duplicated easily by anyone who has the use of a few tools. Transponder keys require a particular device to copy. This means that if you do lose yours it is necessary to visit a locksmith like Beishir Lock and Security that has access to this device. The locksmith can usually program the new key to work with the immobilizer system of the vehicle at a fraction of the cost it would cost to visit 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 make copies of, particularly if the keys don't have any transponder chips in the keys. This makes it more difficult for thieves to steal an extra key, and makes your vehicle secure as it's harder for them to start the vehicle with the physical key.
These keys have to be cut using high-security equipment and require a licensed locksmith to complete the job. They are also referred to as laser cut keys, sidewinder keys, or flip keys. They are an excellent option to increase the security of your car. These keys can be found in a variety of locksmith shops for automotive use. However they must be equipped with the correct equipment to cut these keys, as they require a different type of machine.
They are difficult to replicate because the cuts made on them do not go all the way through the metal, like the old style bladed keys do. The milling machine cuts metal at an exact and calibrated depth. The locksmith must utilize a key code to determine the right settings of the machine to create the right duplicate. If key cut place near me isn't properly set up, it could damage the key cutting machine, or even damage your lock cylinders.
Another reason why these keys are harder to make is because the keys themselves are made with a different pattern, which hinders them from working on different cars that have the same lock combination. This is similar to the way keys with a transponder in them need to be programmed by a dealer to function on your car.
The majority of the time keys are a complete unit that has an accessory key fob that is attached to them. These keys must be programmed by the dealership, and they usually cost more than a standard key that only requires a blank key or an edge-cut. The dealership is likely to be able program your key if you bring it with you. A reputable auto locksmith may also program your key, but the cost will be higher.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys are the most expensive and advanced kind of car keys. These are essentially remotes that have sensors in and communicate with your car using radio waves. They can lock your car and then unlock it without a physical key. They can also start your car. Some smart keys have built-in screens, which allows you to perform a number of functions via the key fob, such as navigation and music playback.
These smart keys use anti-theft technology to stop theft. They transmit a rolling code, that the car's computer recognizes and confirms before making the engine start. If a burglar attempts to open the doors of the car or start the engine using an unauthorised key the car will sound the alarm and turn off the engine. This safeguards the investment you've put into your car and gives you security while you're away.
Modern automobiles are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and that's why it's important to understand the distinctions between traditional and modern keys. When it's time to replace your key, knowing the different options available will help you make the right choice for your needs.
If you want to replace your existing key or replace it, we can cut a duplicate using the original key or an electronic transponder from the manufacturer to program a key into your vehicle. We can cut keys with lasers or edge-cutting and we'll do our best to match the original key. We also provide a range of other automotive services including ignition repair and replacement.
It's a good idea, regardless of the type of key you have to always have an extra. Losing your car key can be stressful and costly if you have to visit the dealer for programming or call locksmith. It's best to get a spare car key before you lose it or require one to be replaced. Stop by today for competitive pricing and quick service! We are your local, reliable automotive expert.