Why We Why We Keys Cut For Cars (And You Should Also!)

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, particularly ones that have transponders or smart key fobs. However the cutting process for keys involves more than just cutting a piece of metal. To cut various kinds of keys, special equipment and techniques are needed. Traditional Keys Traditional keys for cars are cut using a mechanical key-cutting machine. The key's edges are designed to align with the pin pattern of the lock and allow the key to open the lock. These keys are typically used in older cars that are not secured encoding. The traditional car key is less expensive to make than other keys and can be bought at any hardware store or a locksmith. The first step to get the new car key is to figure out the type of car key you'll need. If you have an old-fashioned metal key with no chip You can request an AutoZone associate make a copy of your original key. This can be done by choosing the right key blank for your car's year, make and model, and using the key cutting machine to trace the original key's design on the blank. This process only takes just a few minutes and is the cheapest method to acquire a replacement key. local key cutting is to have locksmiths cut your new key. This is a slightly more expensive option, but it provides additional security. Instead of cutting along the edge of the key using a laser, it is used to mill the key around its edge or in its center. This makes the key thicker and stronger, making it harder to steal. However, you may not be able access your vehicle using a laser-cut key because it doesn't unlock the ignition. Modern car models come with keys that have transponders or another type of chip. They require a specific tool to program them, and the car won't start if the wrong signal is detected. Another option is to get a smart key that acts more like a remote and can unlock the car and then start it by pressing the push of a button. These keys must be programmed for your vehicle but are far more convenient than a standard key. If you lose or are robbed of your smart key, you should contact the manufacturer of your car. Transponder Keys A transponder key is more sophisticated than a conventional flat metal key. The plastic head of a transponder key has an embedded microchip which transmits an identification code to the car whenever it is used to unlock and start the vehicle. The car won't turn over when the chip is damaged or missing. This is why it is crucial to keep your transponder key secure and not lose it. You can recognize a transponder keys by the fact that it has an a little different and larger head of plastic than a normal key. The head also has an antenna ring that can be used to transmit the ID code to your car's computer. If the car can identify the ID code as an authorized key, it will deactivate the immobilizer and allow the engine to continue to run. This is a relatively new type of anti-theft technology that has been successful in its goal to prevent thefts. Certain older vehicles do not have this technology. The majority of vehicles currently on the market are. You should contact an auto locksmith if you need to duplicate a transponder. These firms have specialized equipment that allows them to duplicate keys from their inventory and program it to connect to the computer in your car. Some car brands can also do this by following the instructions in their owner's manuals, but you should always consult an expert if not comfortable doing this on your own. Some car keys are easier than others to copy. Non-transponder keys are still easy to duplicate and can be copied by just about anyone using a few tools. Transponder keys require a specific device to copy. places to get keys cut near me means that if you do lose yours you'll need to visit a locksmith like Beishir Lock and Security that has access to this equipment. In most cases, the locksmith will be able to make a replacement key and programmed to work with your vehicle's immobilizer system at a fraction of the cost of going to the dealership. Laser Keys A large number of modern automobiles have a key that is much more thicker than traditional bladed ones. These keys are harder to duplicate, particularly in the absence of a transponder chip. This makes it more difficult for thieves to obtain an extra key, and helps to keep your vehicle more secure, since it's difficult for them to start the car using a physical key. These keys have to be cut with high-security equipment and require a licensed locksmith to perform the work. These keys are also referred to as laser cut keys, sidewinder keys, or flip keys. They are a great option to enhance the security of your car. You can also find these in most locksmith shops for automotive, but make sure they have the right equipment since these kinds of keys have a different lock cylinder and require a specific kind of machine to cut keys. They are more difficult to duplicate because the cuts on them don't go all the way through the metal, as the bladed keys of the past do. The milling machine removes metal with an exact and calibrated depth. The locksmith will need to use a key code to determine the correct settings of the machine 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. They are also more difficult to make due to patterns that are different. This hinders them from working with different cars that have the exact same lock combination. This is similar to the way keys with a transponder in them need to be programmed by the dealer in order to work on your car. These keys are usually an all-in-one unit that has the keyfob included. These keys must be programmed by the dealership and typically cost more than a conventional key that requires an empty key or an edge-cut. It is usually necessary to bring your current key with you and the dealer will have the tools to program it for you. A reputable locksmith for cars can also do this for you, but it will typically cost a bit more. Smart Keys Keys A smart key is the most sophisticated and expensive kind of car key. They are basically key fob remotes with built-in sensors which communicate with your vehicle through radio waves. They can lock your car and open it without the need for a physical key. They can also start your car. Certain smart keys come with built-in screens that allows you to perform a variety of functions, such as navigation and music playing. These smart keys also incorporate anti-theft technology to prevent theft. The smart keys transmit a rolling-code the car's computer recognizes and validates prior to the engine's start. If a thief attempts to open the doors of the car or start the engine using an invalid key the car will sound the alarm and disable the engine. This safeguards the investment you put into your car and provides you with security when you're away. Modern cars are becoming more more sophisticated, which is why it's important to understand the distinctions between traditional and modern keys. Knowing what options you have when it's time to replace your key will allow you to choose the best option for your requirements. If you are interested in replacing your existing key, we can cut a brand new one using the original key or provide a transponder chip supplied by the manufacturer to program a new key into your vehicle. We can cut keys with lasers or edge-cutting and will do our best match your existing key. We also offer a range of other automotive services including ignition repair and replacement. No matter which type of key you have it's a good idea to have an extra spare on hand. Losing your car keys can be stressful, and expensive should you have to visit the dealer to program it or call locksmith. It's best to be proactive and purchase a spare key now prior to losing one or require replacement. Visit us today for competitive pricing and fast service! We're your local, trusted auto expert.