14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Refused To Ask Keys Cut For Cars
Types of Keys Cut For Cars Finding a new car key isn't expensive. Spare keys can cost hundreds of dollars from a locksmith or a dealership particularly if they come with transponders and smart key fobs. However the process of cutting keys requires more than simply cutting a piece of metal. Different kinds of keys require specific machinery and methods to cut them correctly. Traditional Keys Traditional car keys are cut with an electronic key-cutting machine. The edges of the key are designed to align with pin patterns on the lock to allow the key to open the lock. These keys are used in older vehicles that do not have security encoding. Traditional car keys are less expensive to manufacture than other key types and are available at any locksmith or hardware store. The first step in getting an entirely new car key is to identify the type of car key you'll need. If you have an old-fashioned key made of metal that does not have a chip It is possible to request an AutoZone associate create a duplicate of your original key. This is done by choosing the correct key blank for the year, model and type of your car and then using a key cutting machine to trace the shape of the original key on the blank. This only takes about a minute and is the most affordable way to get a new car key. Another alternative is to have a locksmith cut your new key. This is a slightly more expensive option, however it offers extra security. Instead of cutting along the edge of the key using a laser, it is used to cut the key along its edge or in its center. This makes the key thicker and stronger, making it more difficult to steal. You might not be able to drive your car when you have laser-cut keys, since it will not unlock the engine. Keys for the latest models of cars include transponders or chips. cheap key cutting require a specific tool to program them and the car won't start if the incorrect signal is received. Smart keys are another option. They act more like remote controls and can unlock and start your vehicle with just the touch of the button. The keys must be programmed to correspond with your car, but are much more convenient than having a regular traditional key. If you lose or take your smart key, it is imperative to contact the manufacturer of the car. Transponder Keys A transponder keys is more sophisticated than a conventional flat metal key. Transponder keys contain a microchip embedded in the head of the plastic which transmits an ID number when used to unlock or begin the car. The car will not turn over when the chip is damaged or not present. It is therefore very important to not lose your transponder and keep it safe. You can recognize the transponder key by the fact that it has an a little different and larger head of plastic than a standard key. Also, the head has an antenna ring which is used to transmit this ID code to the car's computer. If the car matches an ID number with an authentic key, it will disable immobilizers, allowing the engine to run. It is a relatively new form of anti-theft tech that has been successful at stopping thefts. Certain older vehicles do not feature this technology. The majority of cars that are available today have this technology. If you require duplicate keys for a transponder, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith near you. These companies will use special equipment to duplicate an existing key for your vehicle and be able to program it with the computer in your car. Some car brands allow you to do it yourself by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual however, you should speak with a professional for assistance if you're not confident doing it on your own. Certain brands of car keys are easier to duplicate than others. Keys that do not have transponders are still easy to duplicate and can be copied by nearly anyone using a few tools. Transponder keys require a special device to copy. If you lose yours, then you will need to visit an authorized locksmith like Beishir Lock and Security who is equipped with this equipment. In the majority of cases, the locksmith can create a new key and programmed to work with your immobilizer in your vehicle at only a fraction of the cost of an excursion to the dealership. Laser Keys A lot of newer vehicles have a key that is much more thicker than traditional bladed ones. These keys are more difficult to copy, especially in the absence of a transponder chip. This makes it difficult for thieves to get spare keys and also helps to keep your vehicle more secure as it is harder for them to start the vehicle using just a physical key. The keys must be cut using high-security equipment and require a licensed locksmith to perform the work. They are also referred to as laser cut keys, sidewinder keys or flip keys. They are a great option for increasing your car's security. They are also available at most automotive locksmith shops However, be sure that they have the proper equipment as these types of keys are made with a different lock cylinder and require a specific kind of machine to cut keys. They are harder to copy because the cuts they make aren't a full length through the metal like the old style bladed keys do. The milling machine cuts metal at an exact and calibrated depth. A key code will be used by the locksmith to determine the settings of the machine to make the duplicate. If the machine isn't setup correctly it could cause damage to the machine that cuts keys, or even damage lock cylinders. Another reason these keys are difficult to create is that the keys themselves are made with a different pattern, which makes them incompatible with multiple cars with the same lock combination. This is similar to the way the keys that have an embedded transponder chip them need to be programmed at the dealership in order to work with your car. The majority times they are an all-in-one unit with the key fob attached to them. These have to be programmed by the dealership and typically cost more than the traditional key, which requires a blank key or an edge-cut key cut. It is usually necessary to bring your current key and the dealer will have the tools to program it for you. A reputable auto locksmith is also able to assist you in this process however it will usually cost a bit more. Smart Keys Keys Smart keys are the most expensive and advanced kind of car keys. They are basically remotes that have sensors into them and can communicate with your car via radio waves. They can lock and unlock your car without the need for a physical key and also start your engine. Certain smart keys come with built-in screens that allows you to perform a variety of functions, such as navigation and music playback. These smart keys also use anti-theft technology to stop theft. The smart keys transmit a rolling-code 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 unauthorised key the car will activate the alarm and turn off the engine. This feature protects the investment you made in your car and gives you security while you're away. Modern cars are becoming more more sophisticated, and that's why it's crucial to know the distinctions between traditional and modern keys. Knowing the options when it's time to replace your key will allow you to choose the best option for your requirements. If you are looking to replace your current key, we can cut a new key with an original key, or provide a transponder chip from the manufacturer to program a new key in your vehicle. We can cut laser-cut and edge-cut keys, and we'll do our best to match the original key as closely as is possible. We also offer a range of other automotive services, including ignition repair and replacement. It's a good idea, no matter what type of key you own, to always have an extra. Losing a car key can be stressful and costly, especially if it requires going to the dealership to program it or a locksmith. It is recommended to purchase an extra car key before you lose it, or need one to be replaced. We offer competitive prices and quick service, so come in today! We're your local, reliable auto experts.