15 Gifts For Those Who Are The Keys Cut For Cars Lover In Your Life
Types of Keys Cut For Cars
A new car key can be costly. From a locksmith to the dealership spare keys can cost hundreds of dollars, especially ones that have transponders or smart key fobs.
The process of cutting keys is more than just cutting a piece of metal However. Different types of keys require specialized machinery and methods to cut them correctly.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys for cars are cut with an electronic key-cutting machine. The edges of the key are designed to align with the pin pattern in the lock, allowing the key to open the lock. These types of keys are used in older cars that do not use security encoding. The traditional car key is also cheaper to produce than other kinds of keys and can be bought at any hardware store or a locksmith.
To obtain a new key for your car first, you have to decide the type of key that you require. If you have a traditional metal key that doesn't need chip, then it's as simple as having an associate copy your original key at your local AutoZone. You can do this by selecting the correct key blank for your vehicle's year, make and model, and using the key cutting machine to trace the original key's design on the blank. This process takes just about a minute and is the most affordable way to get the new car key.
A locksmith can cut your new key. This is a little more expensive, but it provides an additional level of security. Instead of cutting along the key's edge, a laser is used to cut the key around its edge or down its middle. This makes the key sturdier and more substantial, and it is much harder for thieves to pick. You may not be able to use your car with laser-cut keys because it will not unlock the engine.
Modern car models come with keys that come with a transponder or other type of chip. These keys require a special tool to program them, and the car won't start if the wrong signal is detected. Another option is to have a smart key that acts as a remote and allows you to unlock your vehicle and start it using a push button. These keys must be programmed to match the car, but are much more convenient than having a regular traditional key. If, however, you own a smart key that is lost or stolen it is necessary to get in touch with the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
A transponder is more advanced than traditional flat metal keys. The plastic head of a transponder key has a microchip in it which transmits an identification code to the car whenever it is used to unlock and start the car. The car won't be able to turn over in the event that the chip is damaged or missing. This is why it is crucial to keep your transponder key safe and not lose it.
You can recognize a transponder key by the fact that it has an a little different and larger plastic head than the normal key. Additionally, the head is equipped with an antenna ring which is used to transmit this ID code to the car's computer. If the car is able to match an ID code to a valid key, it will disable immobilizers, allowing the engine to run.
This is a relatively recent type of anti-theft technology that has been successful in keeping thefts at bay. Some older cars don't feature this technology. The majority of vehicles currently on the market are.
If you require a transponder key duplicated, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith near you. They have specialized equipment that allows them to duplicate keys from their inventory and program it to connect to the computer in your car. Certain brands of cars will let you do this yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual for their vehicle, but you should consult an expert for assistance if you don't feel at ease doing it on your own.
Certain keys for cars are easier than others to duplicate. Non-transponder keys are still easy to duplicate and can be copied by almost anyone with a few tools. However, a transponder-type key requires a special tool for copying. If you lose it, then you'll need to go to a locksmith such as Beishir Lock and Security who has this equipment. In the majority of instances the locksmith can create a new key and programmed to work with your vehicle's immobilizer at less than the cost of going to the dealership.
Laser Keys
A lot of newer vehicles have keys that are more thicker than traditional bladed keys. These keys are more difficult to duplicate, particularly in the absence of a transponder chip. This makes it difficult for thieves to steal keys that are not duplicates and assists in keeping your vehicle safer, since it's difficult for them to begin the vehicle with a physical key.
These keys must be cut using high-security equipment, by locksmiths that are who is certified in the field. These keys are also known as laser cut keys, sidewinder keys, or flip keys. They are an excellent option for increasing your car's security. They can be found at most automotive locksmith shops, but make sure they have the proper equipment as these types of keys have an entirely different lock cylinder and require a special kind of machine to cut keys.
They are difficult to replicate because the cuts made on them aren't a full length through the metal, like the old style bladed keys do. Instead, the cuts are made using milling machines that remove the metal in an exact and precise depth. The locksmith must use a key code to determine the proper settings for the machine in order to make the correct duplicate. If the machine isn't set correctly, you could damage your key cutting machine or even damage the cylinders of your lock.
Another reason that these keys are more difficult to make is because the keys themselves are made with a different pattern, which makes them incompatible with different cars that have the same lock combination. This is similar to the way keys with a transponder chip inside of them must be programmed at the dealership to work with your car.
They are typically an all-in-one unit that has the keyfob included. They must be programmed by the dealership and usually cost higher than the traditional key that just needs the blank key or an edge-cut key cut. It is usually necessary to bring your current key and the dealership should have the equipment to program it. A reputable auto locksmith may also program your key, but the price will be higher.
Smart Keys
Smart keys are the most expensive and advanced kind of car keys. They are basically key fobs with built-in sensors that communicate with your vehicle through radio waves. They can lock your car and unlock it without a physical key. They can also start your vehicle. Some smart keys have built-in screens that allows you to perform a variety of tasks, including navigation and music playback.
These smart keys also incorporate anti-theft technology in order to stop theft. The smart keys transmit a rolling code that the car's computer recognizes and validates prior to starting the engine. If a criminal attempts to open the doors of the car or start the engine using an invalid key, the car will trigger the alarm and disable the engine. This feature protects the investment you've made in your car and provides extra peace of mind when you're away from it.
Modern cars are becoming more more sophisticated, and that's why it's essential to know the distinctions between keys that are traditional and modern. When it comes time to replace your key, knowing the different options available will allow you to make the right choice for your requirements.
If you're looking to replace your current key, then we can either cut a copy using the original key or an electronic transponder from the manufacturer to program keys into your car. We can cut laser-cut or edge-cut keys and will do our best match your existing key. We also offer a range of other automotive services including ignition repair and replacement.
It's a good idea regardless of the type of key you have, to always have an extra. Losing a car key can be costly and stressful, particularly when it requires an excursion to the dealer for programming or a locksmith. It's better to be proactive and obtain an extra key today prior to losing one or require a replacement. We offer competitive pricing and fast service, so come in today! We are your local, trusted expert in automotive.