15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Ignore Keys Cut For Cars
Types of Keys Cut For Cars A new car key is expensive. Keys for spares can cost hundreds, from a dealer or locksmith particularly if they come with transponders and smart key fobs. However the process of cutting keys involves more than just shaping a metal piece. Different types of keys require specific machinery and cutting techniques that are able to cut correctly. Traditional Keys Traditional keys for cars are cut using a mechanical key-cutting machine. The edges of the key are designed to align with pin patterns inside the lock, allowing the key to unlock the lock. These types of keys are used in older cars which do not feature security encoding. The traditional car key is also less expensive to make than other keys and is available at any hardware store or locksmith. The first step to get a new car key is to identify the kind of car key you require. If you have an old-fashioned metal key without a chip in it You can have an AutoZone associate create a replica of the original key. This is accomplished by selecting the right key blank for the year, year of manufacture and type of your car and then using a key-cutting machine to trace the design of the original key onto the blank. This process only takes a few moments and is the cheapest way to acquire a replacement key. A locksmith can also cut your new key. This option is slightly more expensive, however it offers more security. Instead of cutting just along the edge of the key, a laser cutter is employed to cut around the edge of the key or down its middle. This makes the key thicker and stronger, making it more difficult to pick for thieves. You may not be able to drive your car when you have a laser-cut, as it will not unlock the engine. Newer car models have keys that have transponders or other types of chip. These keys require a specific programming tool to function, and the car will not start if it receives the incorrect signal. Another option is to have a smart key that is as a remote and can open the car and then start it by pressing the push of a button. These keys need to be programmed to match the car, but they are more convenient than an ordinary key. If you lose or are robbed of your smart key, it is imperative to contact the manufacturer of the car. Transponder Keys A transponder keys is more sophisticated than a traditional flat metal key. Transponder keys are equipped with a microchip embedded in the plastic head which transmits an ID number when used to unlock or start the car. If the chip is not present or damaged it will not recognize the key and refuse to turn. It is therefore very important to ensure that you don't lose your transponder and keep it safe. G28 Car Keys UK have a slightly larger and more distinct plastic head. The head also has an antenna ring on it which is used to transmit this ID code to the car's computer. If the car can match the ID code with an authentic key, it will deactivate the immobilizer and allow the engine to run. This is a relatively new technology that has been successful in stopping thefts. Certain older vehicles do not have this technology. The majority of vehicles that are available today have this technology. You should contact an auto locksmith if you require to duplicate a transponder. These firms have special equipment that allows them to duplicate a key and program it to connect to your car's computer. Certain car brands are able to do this by following the instructions in their owner's manual, however, you should always consult an expert if you're not comfortable doing this on your own. Some car keys are easier than others to duplicate. Non-transponder keys are still easy to duplicate and can be copied by just about anyone with just a few tools. However, a transponder keys requires a special tool in order to be copied. This means that if you lose yours you'll need to go to a locksmith such as Beishir Lock and Security that has access to this device. The locksmith is usually able to program your new key to work with the immobilizer system of the vehicle at a fraction of the cost it would cost to go to the dealership. Laser Keys Many newer vehicles come with keys that are more thick than the bladed keys. These keys are more difficult to duplicate, especially if they don't contain any transponder chip. This makes it harder for thieves to steal an extra key, and makes your vehicle secure because it is difficult for them to start the car with a physical key. The keys must be cut using high-security equipment and require a certified locksmith to complete the job. They are sometimes referred to as sidewinder keys or laser cut keys or flip keys. They are a great way to improve the security of your car. They can be found in a variety of locksmith shops for automotive use. However, they must have the correct equipment to cut these keys since they require a different kind of machine. They are difficult to replicate because the cuts made on them aren't a full length through the metal like the bladed keys of old do. Instead, the cuts are made using milling machines that cut the metal at an exact and precise depth. A key code is used by the locksmith to determine the settings of the machine to make the duplicate. If the machine isn't setup correctly, you could damage your key cutting machine or even damage the cylinders of your lock. They are also more difficult to create because they have a pattern that is different. This hinders them from working with multiple cars with the exact same lock pattern. This is similar to how keys with a transponder chip in they must be programmed by the dealership in order to function with your vehicle. Most times keys are a one-piece unit with a key fob attached to them. These keys must be programmed by the dealership and typically cost more than a standard key that requires a blank key or an edge-cut. The dealership is likely to be able program your key when you bring it with you. A reputable auto locksmith could also do this, but the price will be higher. Smart Keys Smart keys are the most expensive and sophisticated type of car keys. They're basically remotes that have sensors into them and can communicate with your car using radio waves. They can be used to lock and unlock your car without the need for a physical key and also start your engine. Some smart keys come with an integrated screen that lets you perform a number of functions from the key fob including navigation and music playback. These smart keys also use anti-theft technology to prevent theft. They transmit a rolling code which the car's computer detects and confirms before starting the engine. The car will stop the engine if a criminal attempts to open the doors or start the vehicle with an unauthorised key. This feature helps protect the investment you've made in your car and provides extra peace of mind when you're away. Modern automobiles are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and that's why it's important to understand the differences between modern and traditional keys. When it comes time to replace a key, knowing the various options available will help you make the right choice for your needs. If you're looking to replace your existing key, then we can either cut a duplicate using the original key or an electronic transponder from the manufacturer in order to program keys into your car. We can cut both laser-cut and edge-cut keys, and we'll do our best to match your old key as closely as is possible. We also offer a variety of other automotive services, including ignition repair and replacement. Whatever type of key you have it's recommended to keep an extra spare available. The loss of your car key could be stressful, and expensive should you have to visit the dealer to program it or contact an locksmith. It is best to have an extra car key before you lose it, or need one to be replaced. Stop by today for competitive pricing and quick service! We're your local, trusted auto expert.