Car Key Cutting Explained

Car key cutting is more than just shaping an object of metal. It is a complicated procedure that guarantees security, function and longevity of keys.

It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car or have them break in the lock. To ensure that you are able to always drive your vehicle, you will need a new key cut.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips are likely to be fitted in vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. These microchips are located in the handle of the key and send a signal to the onboard computers in your vehicle when you use the key. The computer on board detects the digital serial number inside the chip and allows the car to start if it's the right one. This stops theft of vehicles, as thieves would need to know your unique serial number to be able to steal it.

The microchip in the key sends a low-level signal the receiver within the car. The radio signal activates the microchip, which transmits an informational code to the car's onboard computer. The car will be able to recognize the code and only allow it to start when it is the correct one. This will stop "hot wiring" or other methods to steal cars.

Locksmiths that offer these services can make keys for cars with chips. Some automotive retailers such as AutoZone sell keys with chips. They have a huge selection of keys, and can assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your vehicle. They can assist you in programming the chip in your vehicle, which is required to use the device.

Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys feature the lock cylinder, which is more difficult to pick, and they can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting near me key cutting machines or with specially designed software. This type of technology is typically found in luxury vehicles, but it is now available in many affordable models of cars too.

Another type of car key that is difficult to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. These keys have a black resistor on the blade of the key that is programmed with one of 15 possible values to prevent the car from starting that it's not intended to. These keys are more expensive to buy and require a specific key programming machine that is only located at certain locksmiths.

VATS Keys

Before transponder keys or cars with computer chips that control the ignition, GM used a system called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a regular key with a pellet of resistance embedded inside it to confirm that the correct key is being used to start the car. The VATS pellet black inside the middle of the VATS key isn't an electronic chip as present in modern smart keys, it's simply a block of carbon appropriately sized to have a specific electrical resistance value.

GM employed 15 different resistance values for VATS pellets and connected the key's blade so that when the key is turned on in the ignition a coded signal will be transmitted to the module. If the signal matches the resistance value of the transistor in the VATS pellet, the relay in the starter circuit is activated and the engine will start to run. This doesn't make a car secure from burglary however, it can deter thieves for at least 15 to twenty minutes.

Unfortunately, after a long period of use the VATS module in your car may begin to wear out. Each time a key is inserted into the ignition it moves two tiny wires inside the ignition and, over time, the wires may start to break. If enough wires are damaged the signal goes out to the module and the car will not start.

You can solve this problem at home yourself by decoding your VATS code. It's not difficult to determine the resistance value of a key using the multimeter. All you need to do is put one of the leads of your ohm gauge on the metal prongs that are hanging out on both sides of the key. Then look at the display of the ohmmeter to determine the resistance value of your key.

This method is also a great way to test the new key to determine whether it works in your vehicle. Just be sure to remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, as the new key may have an incorrect VATS value and not work in your car.

Smart Key Fobs

Key fobs today are more than simply unlock or start the car. Many of them have advanced features that many owners are not aware of. They can be used as a security device or as a theft deterrent. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, emit noises that help you locate your car in a parking lot, or even allow you to summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your smartphone. This is more functionality than you get keys cut from a standard keychain remote. Unfortunately, all that added functionality can mean that smart key fobs may be more expensive to replace than standard keychain remotes, and they usually require programming by the dealer.

Some sellers charge as much as $100 for a single smart fob. It's a steep price for a device that's frequently tossed around in pockets and purses where it can be damaged, dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures and water. Certain automakers have developed strategies to protect smart key fobs from common electronic threats, including relay attacks. They are typically used in combination with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to gain access to your vehicle's settings by transmitting a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.

One method of protecting the smart key fob is to keep it in a metal case or use a dedicated RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from its protective case every time you use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.

Fortunately, some of the newer car key cutting near me prices insurance policies, auto club memberships, and extended warranty coverages will cover the cost of replacing a fob or reimburse you for a lost fob. You can also avoid paying dealership fees by having your fob copied by a locksmith or hardware retailer that provides key-fob cloning.

For most drivers, the decision to purchase an additional key fob is contingent on how important your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. It is always advisable to keep an extra key or fob on hand in the event that you lose yours. Batteries Plus offers a large range of replacement car key cutting (Going to Autocela) fobs that will fit most cars and trucks. Additionally, we provide an easy, fast service that is roughly 50% less than what you'd pay at the dealership.

Traditional Keys

The classic get car key cut key is one piece of metal with a series of grooves cut into it. These grooves are designed to fit certain locks. These keys can open your locks and begin your car, assuming you don't replace them with an electronic key or a remote key. The only disadvantage of using traditional keys is that it has to be physically inserted into the ignition in order to start the vehicle. If your traditional key has been lost, broken or stolen, you'll need to visit a Gainesville locksmith to have a new one made from the blank.

There are a variety of choices to pick from based on how long it's been since you cut your keys. Certain keys are cut using mechanical machines and others are laser-cut with enhanced security features.

Modern keys come with advanced features such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Transponder chips are another anti-theft feature. They are incorporated into the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This makes it only effective only when you're within a specific distance.

If you choose to use a traditional key, your locksmith can design an entirely new key using an ordinary cutter machine, which can be purchased at most hardware stores. This is cheaper than using a key fob or a transponder key, and you'll be able to use your locks, doors and trunk.

You can also replace your traditional keys for your car with a laser cut version with a distinctive pattern. The first keys of this kind were released in the 1990s and have become a popular choice for those looking to safeguard their vehicles. Laser cut keys typically have special transponder chips that are programmed to work only for your specific vehicle. If the chips aren't present in your vehicle, it won't respond to the signals coming from the key and won't be able to start.