motorcycle key cutting Cutting Explained
Cutting keys for cars is more than just bending a piece metal. It is a complex process that ensures security, functionality and long-term use of keys.
It is not unusual to lose your car key or even break it in the lock. To ensure you're able to always drive your car, you will require a replacement key cut.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are likely to be fitted in vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. These microchips are in the handle of the key and transmit a signal to your vehicle's onboard computers when you use the key. The computer in the car detects the digital serial number in the chip and only allows the car to start if it is the right one. This prevents thieves from stealing your car, as they would need to be aware of the unique serial number.
The microchip in your car key sends a low-level radio signal to the car's receiver. This radio signal activates the microchip, and it then sends an informational code to the car's onboard computer. The car will only begin when it recognizes the code. This will stop the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of taking cars.
Locksmiths that offer these services can make keys for cars with chips. They are also available at certain automotive stores, such as AutoZone. These stores offer a wide selection of keys, and can assist you in choosing the appropriate one for your vehicle. They can even assist you to programme the chip into your vehicle, which is necessary for it to function.
There are also laser cut keys that are more secure than conventional flat keys. These keys have an cylinder for locking that is much more difficult to pick, and they are only duplicated using expensive laser key cutting equipment or specially designed software. This type of technology is typically found in high-end cars however, it is now available in a wide range of low-cost models.
The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system) key is another kind of key that is difficult to duplicate. The keys come with a resistor black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of 15 possible values to stop it from starting a vehicle it's not intended to. They are expensive and require an instrument for programming keys, which is only available at a few locksmiths.
VATS Keys
Before transponder keys or cars that had computer chips built in to 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 in it to confirm that the correct key is used to start the vehicle. The VATS black pellet that is in the center of the VATS key isn't a chip like those used in modern smart keys, it's simply a block of carbon appropriately sized to have an exact electrical resistance.
GM used 15 different resistance values for the VATS pellets and connected the key's blade to ensure that, when the key is turned in the ignition a coded signal will be sent to the module. If the signal matches the signal of the transistor in a VATS pellet, then the relay in the starter circuit will turn on and the engine will start to run. This isn't a way to make a car theft proof however it will delay the thief by at least 15 to 20 minutes.
After a long period of use the VATS module could begin to wear out. The two wires inside the ignition are moved every time a key is introduced. Over time the wires could start to break. Once enough wires are broken the signal to the module gets lost and it won't start the car.
You can resolve this issue at home yourself by decoding your VATS code. You'll require a multimeter as well as a chart to determine the resistance value of your key, but it's not difficult at all. All you have to do is place one of the leads of your ohm gauge on the metal prongs that are sticking out on both sides of the key, then look at the display of the ohmmeter to find out the resistance of your key.
This is also a great way to test a new key to see if it will work in your car. Remove the key from the ignition first before you test it. Otherwise the key could have an incorrect VATS and not work in your vehicle.
Smart Key Fobs
Today's key fobs are more than just a way to unlock or start cars. Many of them have advanced features that many owners aren't aware of. They can be used as a security device or as a theft deterrent. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, make chirping sounds to help you locate your car in a parking space, or even allow you to summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your smartphone. This is more than you'd expect from the traditional keychain remote. Unfortunately, all that added capabilities can mean that smart key fobs can be more expensive to replace than standard keychain remotes, and they usually require programming by the dealer.
Some dealers will charge up to $100 for a single smart fob. It's a huge cost to pay for a device that is often jostled in pockets and purses in the event that it gets damaged, dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures and moisture. Fortunately certain automakers have come up with methods to shield smart key fobs from common types of electronic threats like relay attacks. These are usually utilized in conjunction with a remote-start hack that allows thieves to access your vehicle's settings through a fake signal from another nearby transmitter.
To secure a smart card you can put it in a metal casing or even an RFID blocking case. This will prevent the transmission of these signals. The ease of use of this technology is compromised if you have to remove your key fob each time you want to use it from the case.
Fortunately, some newer car-insurance policies such as auto club memberships and extended warranty coverage will pay for the cost of replacing a fob or reimburse you for the lost fob. You can also save money on new-car dealership charges and get your fob cut at a hardware store or locksmith who offers key fob cloning.
For most drivers who want to buy an extra key fob will depend on how important your car's keyless entry and push-button starter functions are. You should always keep a spare key or fob on hand in case you misplace yours. Batteries Plus offers a large range of replacement fobs that will fit in most vehicles and trucks. Additionally, our fast and efficient service is 50% less than what you'd buy from the dealership.
Traditional Keys
The car key of old is made of a single piece of steel with a series of grooves cut into it. These grooves are made to fit specific locks. These keys will unlock your locks and open the car, provided you don't swap them out for a smart key or remote key. The only drawback to using an old-fashioned car key is that you have to physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your traditional car key has been damaged or lost you'll need to visit the Gainesville Locksmith to get a new one created.
There are a variety of options to select from based on how long it has been since you had your keys cut. Certain keys employ mechanical cutting machines to create copies, while others employ laser-cut keys made with security features in mind.
Some of these modern features that come with the modern types of keys include encryption as well as other anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Transponder chips are an additional security feature that prevents theft. They are embedded into the key and communicate with your vehicle. This means that it can only work only when you're within certain distance.
If you choose to make use of a traditional key, your locksmith can create the new key using the standard cutter machine, which can be purchased from most hardware stores. This is less expensive than using the key fob or transponder key, and you'll still be able to operate your doors, locks and trunk.
You can also replace your traditional car keys with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. The first keys of this kind were released in the early 1990s and are a popular option for those who wish to safeguard their automobiles. The majority of laser cut keys contain transponder chips that are designed to work only with your specific vehicle. If these chips aren't present in your vehicle they will not respond to the signals transmitted by the key.