How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is essential to replace your car's key immediately if you lose it or damage it. This will prevent thieves from gaining access to your vehicle.
Also, you should have duplicate keys for the vehicle. This will help you save time and money if you have to get your vehicle in an emergency.
Keys with chip transponders
In the past, if you lost your car keys, it was possible to go to a local locksmith or hardware store to have a new one cut. You'd receive an ordinary key with an aluminum cap which contained the transponder. When you turn the ignition key the chip sends an email to the car. The car's computer scans for the serial number in order to unlock or start it. If the computer cannot find the code, it won't start your car, and you won't have any way to drive away.
You can tell the car key is equipped with chip by the fact that it is thicker. It may also sport the appearance of a black or grey head. It can be integrated with a remote or remain in your pocket, purse or bag and feature a push button to start the car. This type of key can be designed to work for most cars however, they must be programmed according to the vehicle's system.
Keys with a chip are more expensive than regular keys, but they provide better protection against theft. Locksmiths require special equipment to clone these keys and a working key from your car. This type of key can be manipulated. You should secure your doors and shut all windows prior to leaving your vehicle.
A key that has a chip transponder is an electronic microchip that is built into the head. This is why these are sometimes referred to as "chip" or "transponder" keys. The car manufacturer program the chips using a unique code. When the key is placed in the ignition the antenna ring emits a blast of radio frequency energy. The transponder chip takes this energy and sends out an identification code to the receiver located in the ignition.
The information is processed by the car's computer to ensure that only a valid key is being used. Your car will not start if the code on the transponder is not in line with the one in your ECM. This technology was developed in order to protect against auto theft by making it impossible for thieves to copy or duplicate your car keys.
Keys without a transponder chip
Losing your car keys can be a big inconvenience. It may take some time to find a replacement and program it. If you have an extra key, this is much easier. Finding someone who can cut a key with the correct code is difficult especially for modern vehicles. Modern keys are equipped with a chip that communicates with your car in order to prevent theft. These chips require specialized equipment that only dealerships can use which is why so many customers visit the dealer when they lose their car keys.
Find out what kind of key you need. Certain older models still use mechanical keys, whereas others come with transponder chips. These transponder chips are designed to prevent theft, by connecting to the vehicle's computer, and confirming that it is a genuine key. They are also more difficult to duplicate because they feature laser-cut grooves that are not easily duplicated using an ordinary grinder. Some modern vehicles have smart keys that function like a remote and doesn't require the traditional method of turning the ignition.
Most hardware stores will make an exact replica of your mechanical key. car key cutting and programming is relatively cheap and the final product will function just as well as the original. You'll need your vehicle's VIN number as well as a working key to the store, which will enable them to trace the exact contours of your blank key. Some stores even have a device that reads the information from the immobilizer to ensure that the new key will work with your car.
However, if you have keys with transponder chip the process will be more difficult. These keys need to be programmed in order to work and the chip needs to match the specific codes your car is using. This is an important security feature that can assist in preventing theft, and the majority of times your car won't start if it discovers that there isn't a matching chip. This is why it is important to always have a spare key on the side.
Keys with an accessory key fob
Modern conveniences, key fobs can be used to unlock doors and start cars at the press of a button. They make use of radio waves to communicate with the car's computer. However, they're susceptible to security risks. To prevent theft and unauthorized access, it's essential to protect them. Here are a few things you should be aware of about your key fob to guard it from a variety of vulnerabilities.
If you're looking for a replacement key or just want to ensure that you have one in case you lose yours, you should visit a professional locksmith for the task. They can make an electronic key that is compatible with your vehicle. They'll also be able reprogram the car so that it will recognize your new key.
You may be tempted to cut your keys at a big-box store such as Lowe's or Home Depot if you're in need of help. These retailers aren't auto experts, so they cannot offer the same service as locksmiths. They often lack the proper key cutting machines for vehicles. A key fob is an original shape that needs to be accurately duplicated.
You can also visit your local dealer, but this is more expensive. Dealerships have fixed prices and are required to follow strict policies. They also report to shareholders, car companies, and anticipate quarterly gains in monetary terms.
You can also find a key-cutting kiosk like KeyMe located in different locations to cut down on time. These kiosks are able to cut a single, simple key on site. More complex keys can be delivered directly to your home. This service is less than the cost you'd pay at a dealership. If you're not in a rush it could be a great alternative to returning to your manufacturer. But, ensure that the key you select is the same thickness as your original. Otherwise, it won't fit in the lock.
Keys with keyless entry system
Keyless entry and proximity keys systems are gaining popularity in new cars. These new technologies are extremely complex and should be handled by a professional. A locksmith can explain how these systems work and how they could help you save money. In addition, a locksmith can also repair your proximity key or program it for you. This can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
The first step is to determine the type of car keys you have. Cars with older models only require a standard cut key but modern cars include transponder chips that must be programmed. This can be done by a dealer or by an automotive locksmith. You can save money by programming your spare key yourself. A lot of automakers allow this, but you need to follow the instructions in your owner's manual.
You can also go to the big box store or a hardware store. Some of these stores have key-cutting machines that can copy a standard key in minutes. Select a key that is the same thickness as your original key. If you're looking to cut down more time, try an automated key cutting kiosk like KeyMe. KeyMe has locations in all cities and can cut the majority of keys at the kiosk.
It is recommended to have the key fob reprogrammed if you're buying a used car. This will remove previous owner information from your vehicle's database. This will prevent thieves from using the device which is able to capture and transmit the signals to the keyfob. Relay crime is on the rise and it's possible a stolen key fob could be used to start the engine of an unrelated vehicle.
Locksmiths are the best choice to cut car keys since they are experts on the most popular models. They can also offer other services, like changing the key fob of a car or unlocking a locked door. These services will cost less than a dealership, however, they'll require expertise and experience.
