Types of Keys Cut For Cars
A new car key can be costly. From a locksmith to the dealership, spare keys can cost hundreds of dollars, particularly ones that come with transponders or smart key fobs.
However car key cutting cost cutting process for keys involves more than just shaping a metal piece. Different kinds of keys require specialized machinery and methods to cut them correctly.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys for cars are cut using an electronic key-cutting machine. The key's edges are designed to align with the pin pattern inside the lock, allowing the key to open the lock. These keys are typically used in older cars without security encoding. The traditional car key is also cheaper to produce than other kinds of keys and can be bought at any hardware store or a locksmith.
The first step in acquiring a new car key is to figure out the type of car key you require. If you have an old-fashioned metal key that does not have a chip You can have an AutoZone associate create a replica of the original key. This is done by choosing the appropriate key blank for the year, make and model of your car and then using a key-cutting machine to trace the shape of the original key onto the blank. This process only takes just a few minutes and is the most affordable way to obtain a replacement car key.
A locksmith can cut your new keys. This is a bit more expensive option, however it offers extra security. Instead of simply cutting along the edges of the key, a laser cutter can be employed to cut around the edge of the key or in its middle. This makes the key more solid and stronger, making it more difficult to steal. You may not be able to drive your car when you have a laser-cut, as it will not unlock the engine.
Newer car models have keys that include transponders or another type of chip. These keys require a special tool to program them and the car won't start if a wrong signal is received. Another option is an intelligent key, which functions more like a remote and allows you to unlock your vehicle and start it using a push button. They must be programmed for your vehicle however they are much more convenient than a conventional key. However, if you have a smart key and it is stolen or lost it is necessary to contact your car's manufacturer.
Transponder Keys
A transponder is more sophisticated than the conventional flat metal keys. The head of the plastic transponder key contains an embedded microchip which transmits an identification code to the car when it is used to unlock and start the vehicle. The car won't start in the event that the chip is damaged or missing. It is crucial to not lose your transponder and ensure it is safe.
You can identify the transponder key by the fact that it has an slightly different and larger plastic head than the standard key. Also, the head has an antenna ring which is used to transmit this ID code to the car's computer. If the car can identify the ID code as an authorized key, it will disable the immobilizer and allow the engine to continue to run.
This is a relatively new form of anti-theft technology, which has proven effective in its efforts to prevent thefts. While the majority of vehicles that are on the market today have this technology, some older models aren't.
If you require a transponder key duplicated the best option is to contact an auto locksmith in your area. These companies use specialized equipment that allows them to duplicate a key and program it to work with your car's computer. Certain car manufacturers allow you to do it yourself by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual for their vehicle, but you should consult an expert for assistance if you're not at ease doing it on your own.
Some brands of car keys are more easy to copy than others. Non-transponder keys are still easy to duplicate and can be copied by just about anyone with a few tools. However, a transponder key requires a special device to copy it. This means that if you do lose yours you'll need to find a locksmith like Beishir Lock and Security that has access to this equipment. The locksmith will usually program the replacement key to connect with the immobilizer system of the vehicle for a fraction of what it would cost to visit the dealership.
Laser Keys
A majority of the newer vehicles have keys that are more thick than the bladed keys. These keys can be more difficult to copy of, especially if the keys don't have any transponder chips inside the keys. This makes it harder for thieves to get a spare and also makes your car more secure since it's more difficult for them to open the vehicle with a simple physical key.
The keys must be cut using high-security equipment and require a certified locksmith to perform the work. These keys are also known as laser cut keys, sidewinder keys or flip keys. They are an excellent option for increasing your car's security. These keys can be found in most locksmith shops for automobiles. However they must be equipped with the correct equipment to cut these keys since they require a different kind of machine.
The cuts aren't as deep on these keys, as opposed to the bladed keys of old. Instead the cuts are made by milling machines that cut the metal in a precise and calibrated depth. A key code is used by the locksmith to determine the settings of the machine to make the duplicate. If the machine isn't properly set up, it could damage the key cutting machine or even harm the cylinders of your lock.
Another reason that these keys are harder to make is because the keys themselves have a distinct pattern that prevents them from working on multiple cars with the same lock combination. This is similar to the way the keys that have an embedded transponder chip them need to be programmed at the dealership to work with your vehicle.
They are typically an all-in-one unit that has the keyfob included. car key cutting price must be programmed by the dealership and usually cost a bit higher than the traditional key that requires the blank key or an edge-cut key cut. It is usually necessary to bring your current key and the dealership should have the equipment to program it. A reputable automotive locksmith is also able to do this for you, but it will typically cost a bit more.
Smart Keys
Smart keys are the most expensive and sophisticated type of car keys. These are essentially remotes with sensors that are built in and communicate with your car using radio waves. They can unlock and lock your vehicle without the need for an actual key, as well as start your engine. Some smart keys have an integrated screen that allows you to perform a variety of tasks, including navigation and music playing.
These smart keys employ anti-theft techniques to prevent theft. The smart keys transmit a rolling-code that the car's computer scans and confirms before starting the engine. The car will shut off the engine if a thief attempts to open the doors or start the vehicle using an unauthorised key. This feature protects the investment you've made in your car and provides extra security when you're away.
Modern automobiles are more complicated than ever before, so it is essential to understand the difference between traditional keys and modern keys. Knowing the options available when it's time to replace your key will allow you to choose the best option for your requirements.
If you are interested in replacing your existing key we can cut a new key using an original key or provide a transponder chip supplied by the manufacturer to program a new key into your vehicle. We can cut laser-cut or edge-cut keys and will do our best match the original key. We provide a variety of automotive services including ignition repair and replacement.
It's a good idea regardless of the kind of key you have to always keep an extra. The loss of a car keys can be costly and stressful, particularly when it requires an excursion to the dealer for programming or a locksmith. It's best to be proactive and purchase a spare key now, before you lose one or require a replacement. We provide competitive pricing and fast service, so stop by today! We are your local, trusted automotive experts.