Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting car keys involves more than just bending a piece metal. It's an art that ensures security, convenience, and peace of mind for car owners.
Bring your existing key to an AutoZone store and an associate will duplicate the key using the correct key cutting procedure for your vehicle's make and model. The key cutting process takes only a few minutes and is much less expensive than purchasing a new car key at the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to early automotive locks and are the simplest kind of car key. They have a pattern of ridges and grooves cut into them that align with the pins in the lock to unlock it. Most hardware stores can copy mechanical keys, however a locksmith with the proper tools will be able to make copies that are more durable and can be used inside your car.
A professional locksmith will also be capable of creating laser cut keys. They are more secure than mechanical keys due to the fact that they feature grooves on both sides. This makes it more difficult to duplicate the key, and if someone is using a grinder to try to do so they'll likely end up leaving the metal pieces that will not fit in your lock.
In the 1990s transponder keys were invented to add another layer of security. They have a tiny chip inside the head that communicates to your car so it knows it's authentic keys. If the chip in your key isn't matched to your car, it will not start and will remain immobilised. Keys with this type of chip are more expensive than a mechanical one and require expert cutting and programming.
Smart keys are the most recent advancement in car keys. They are the result of combining a traditional mechanical key and a remote control. This allows you to unlock and start your vehicle with the key, and allows you to do so from a distance. A professional auto locksmith mobile can create smart keys that can be replaced for your vehicle in a matter of minutes using the most advanced technology.
Hardware stores aren't the best option for a new mechanical key to replace damaged or lost keys. The majority of chains don't have the right equipment or highly trained professionals to be able to create an excellent key that can be used in your vehicle. It is safer to hand over the making of your key to a professional and you will most likely save money over the long term by opting for this method.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys are more expensive than standard blanks, but they offer an extra layer of security to your vehicle. They are carved from the middle using a laser, which allows them to be put in the lock on either side, and work. They also have a distinct pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
The longer shank that is thicker and has smaller grooves can help you discern a laser-cut key from a traditional bladed key. This means the key is more difficult to turn than an ordinary key and makes it more difficult for thieves to open your car without a lot of time and effort. Keys with this design are less likely to get stuck in the lock as they have a more precise cutting.
When you insert the laser-cut keys into your lock, a distinct signal is sent to the car's receiver. This signals the car that it's the right key and allows it to start. If a burglar does manage to get their hands on an unauthorized copy of your key, the car's transmitter will not be able to recognize it and will not start.
Laser-cut keys were first introduced in the 1990s and are now used in many luxury cars. They are more expensive and require specialized equipment, but they provide an extra layer security for your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace your key quickly and at a reasonable cost should you lose it.
You may need to have the transponder chip programmed into your key, based on the car you own. This isn't something you can do on your own and the majority of car dealerships will charge you an arm and a leg to perform the program for you. A good locksmith will be able to program your transponder for you, although they may not have the same amount of experience as your local dealer.
Transponder chips are found in the keys of most newer cars to provide an extra layer security. These chips are synchronized with your ignition system, allowing it to verify the key prior to making the motor start. Even if a thief manages to steal the key and duplicate it however, they will not be able to use it to start your car since the engine will refuse to start if it doesn't have the correct code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are present in almost all cars built in the last 20 years. They are basically radio transmitters that will keep your car from starting if you don't have the correct key in place. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft as thieves had come up with a variety of methods to start cars with brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using flat screwdrivers) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system entirely). The transponder chip was the solution to all of this because it only allowed the car to be turned on for a brief period of time. It also verified that there was a key inside.
A regular transponder will look like a key made of metal with a top made of plastic. The plastic top houses the transponder which sends a signal to your car when the key is close enough. This signal contains an electronic serial number that is identical to the original transponder in your car. If the signals match, your car will allow you to operate it. This is the most effective security system the car manufacturer can employ since it makes car theft impossible for anyone who does not have a valid key.
There are several types of transponder keys which can be utilized in your vehicle, depending on the model. Some keys have an embedded transponder in the head. Some include a remote fob that contains the key transponder. Key fobs typically include buttons that permit you to lock and unlock your car, set an alarm, and perform other functions.
A locksmith can help you acquire a new transponder key for your car and can even program it for you, if needed. This procedure is usually straightforward and requires only just a few steps. The new key has to be cut using a key cutter. This can be done at any auto shop. Then, the blank transponder key must be programmed for your specific vehicle by a professional auto locksmith. The process of programming is typically very quick and only takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars have a remote keyless entry system that requires a fob. The fob transmits the vehicle a signal to unlock the doors or start the motor. It also opens the trunk, if it is equipped.
It's important to note that a car key fob is not like the traditional key you might have on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment which must be programmed correctly in order to work with your vehicle. This is why you shouldn't attempt to cut your own fob. It's best to leave cutting and programming of your key fobs to experts.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. G28 Car Keys come with a key that can be folded inside, similar to the switchblade. This lets the fob become smaller and compact when not in use. There are fobs without the foldable feature, that look like normal-sized keys.
It can be difficult to replace your key fob if you lose it. It could require specialized tools or a trip to the dealer. Dealers usually only offer a key fob that is compatible with the model you have. This is because the dealer has the technological expertise to make sure the replacement fob works with your car's security system.
Fortunately, the process of getting an entirely new key fob is relatively simple when you have the right details. You'll have to know your car's year of manufacture, year of manufacture, and model. Take an extra key that works.
Gather the necessary tools: Before trying to program your key fob, read the manual of the manufacturer to ensure you have all the necessary tools and equipment. You'll need to enter a particular mode, which could involve pressing certain buttons, turning the ignition on/off at a specific number of times or a combination. Some manufacturers may even signal entry into programming mode by sound or flashing lights.
You can bring your key fob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to have it cut and programmed. We can help you save time and money by cutting your key fobs for the lower cost than the dealership. We are open later than the dealer, so you won't need to rush to work to get your keyfob programed and cut.