Seven Reasons Why Cut Car Key Is Important

Car Key Cutting Explained

Cutting keys for cars is more than just bending a piece of metal. It is a complex procedure that ensures security, functionality and the longevity of keys.

It is not uncommon to lose your car keys or even have them break into the lock. You'll need an alternative car key to ensure you can drive your vehicle at all times.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips are likely to be fitted in vehicles built within the past 20 years. These microchips are tiny in the key's handle that transmit a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer when you use it. The computer in the car detects the digital serial number within the chip and allows the car to start if it is the right one. This prevents thieves from taking over your vehicle, as they would need to know the unique serial number.

The microchip inside the key transmits a low-level signal to the receiver within the car. This radio signal activates the microchip which then transmits code to the onboard computer of the car. The car will be able to recognize the code and only allow it to start if the key is the correct one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods to steal cars.

Car keys with chips can be created at locksmiths that offer these services. Some auto dealers like AutoZone sell them. They have a vast range of keys and will assist you in selecting the best one for your car. They can even help you program the chip to your vehicle, which is essential for it to function.

You can also purchase laser cut keys that are more secure than flat keys. They have a lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick, and can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting machines or special software. This technology is most common in high-end vehicles however, it is now available in a wide range of low-cost models.

Another kind of key for cars that is hard to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. The keys come with a resistor black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed with one of a variety of values to stop it from starting a vehicle that's not intended to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a special key programming device that can only be found at some locksmiths.

VATS Keys

Before the advent of transponder keys as well as cars equipped with computer chips that control the ignition of the car, GM used something called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a key with a resistor embedded in it to ensure that the correct key was used to start the car. The VATS black pellet that is inside the middle of a VATS key is not an electronic chip like the ones used in modern smart keys. It is simply a piece of carbon appropriately sized to have an exact electrical resistance.

GM employed 15 different resistances for the VATS Pellets and attached them to key blades in a way that, when the key is turned in the ignition a coded signal is sent to the module. If the signal is in line with that of the transistor in a VATS pellet then the relay in starter circuit will turn on and the engine will begin to run. This doesn't make a vehicle safe from theft however it will delay the theft by at most 15 to 20 minutes.

Unfortunately, after a long period of use the VATS module in your car can begin to wear out. Each time a key is inserted into the ignition it moves two very small wires inside the ignition, and with time, the wires may begin to break. Once enough wires are broken the signal is lost to the module and the car won't start.

The good news is that you can solve this issue at home by decoding your VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance value of a key with the multimeter. All you have to do is put one of the leads of your ohm meter onto the metal prongs that are hanging out on both sides of the key, and then examine the display of your ohm meter to determine the resistance value of your key.

This is also a great way to test a new key to determine if it will work in your car. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. If not, the key may have an incorrect VATS and not function in your vehicle.

Smart Key Fobs for Keys

Key fobs today can do more than just unlock or start the vehicle. They also function as used as a security device and security measure against theft, with many of them featuring advanced features that the owners might not even know about. They can lock and unlock your door remotely and make chirping sounds to help you locate your car in a lot or summon it by pressing a button. This is more features than you get from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their additional functions. They also need to be programmed at the dealer.

In fact, some dealers charge up to $100 to replace one smart key fob. It's a high price to pay for a device that is frequently tossed around in purses and pockets where it could be damaged, thrown or exposed to extreme temperatures and moisture. Some automakers have developed methods to protect smart mobile key cutting service fobs from common electronic attacks, like relay attacks. These are usually used in combination with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to access the settings of your vehicle by sending a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.

One way to protect a smart key fob is to store it in an aluminum case or an RFID blocking case that prevents the transmission of these signals. However, the necessity of removing the key fob from a protective case each time you use it is not a good way to enjoy the benefits of the technology.

Certain policies that are more recent like auto club memberships and extended warranties, will pay for replacing the fob or reimburse you in the event that it is lost. You can also avoid paying new-car dealership fees by having your fob copied at a locksmith or hardware retailer that provides key-fob cloning.

For the majority of 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. In any event you should have a spare key or fob handy just in case you lose yours. Batteries Plus offers a large range of replacement fobs that fit most cars and trucks. In addition, our quick and convenient service costs about 50% less than what you'd spend at a dealership.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys for cars are a single piece of metal with grooves cut into it to fit in a specific lock. They can unlock your locks and also start the car, assuming you haven't changed them out to a smart or remote key. The only downside of using an old-fashioned car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional mobile key cutting has been lost, broken or stolen, you'll need to visit the Gainesville locksmith to get an alternative one cut from the blank.

Based on the amount of time that has passed since you last cut your keys There are many options available for you to select from when it comes to getting another copy. Certain keys utilize mechanical cutting machines to make copies, while others use laser-cut keys that are made with security features in mind.

Modern keys are equipped with advanced features, such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. The encryption makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or take locks. Transponder chips are an additional security feature that prevents theft. They are embedded into the key and can communicate with your vehicle. This makes it only effective only when you're within a specific distance.

If you opt to use a traditional key, your locksmith can create the new key using a standard cutter machine that is available from a variety of hardware stores. This is less expensive than the key fob or transponder key, and you'll be able to use your doors, locks and trunk.

Another option is to have the traditional car keys replaced with a laser cut version with a unique pattern. These keys were first introduced in the 1990s and are now a popular option for those who wish to provide extra security to their vehicles. laser key cutting cut keys typically come with transponder chips that are designed to work only with the specific vehicle you own. If these chips aren't installed in your car it won't be able to respond to the signals coming from the key, and will not start.