Car Key Cutting Explained<br /><br />Cutting a car key is more than just bending metal. It is a complicated procedure that ensures safety, functionality and long-term use of keys.<br /><br />It is not unusual to lose your car keys or even have it break in the lock. You'll need a new car key in order to ensure that you can drive your vehicle at all times.<br /><br /><br /><br />Transponder Keys<br /><br />If your car was constructed within the past 20 years, it's likely that it has transponder chips. These microchips are in the handle of the key and transmit a signal the onboard computers of your vehicle when you turn the key. The computer on board scans the digital serial numbers in the chip and only allows the car to start if it is the correct one. This stops thieves from hijacking your vehicle, as they would need to know the unique serial number.<br /><br />The microchip inside the key transmits a low-level signal to the receiver within the car. The radio signal activates microchip, which transmits a code to the car's onboard computer. The car will recognize this code and only allow it to start if it is the correct one. This stops "hot wiring" or other methods of stealing cars.<br /><br />Car keys with chips can be created at a locksmith that offers these services. They are also available at a few automotive stores like AutoZone. These stores offer a wide selection of keys, and can help you find the right one for your vehicle. They can even assist you to programme the chip into your vehicle, which is necessary for it to function.<br /><br />Laser cut keys are more secure than flat keys. These keys have the lock cylinder, which is much more difficult to pick, and they can only be duplicated using expensive laser key cutting machines or specially designed software. This technology is most common in luxury cars however, it is now available on many affordable models.<br /><br />The VATS (vehicle-anti-theft system), key is another type of key that is difficult to duplicate. The keys have a resistor that is black on the blade of the key. It can be programmed to any of fifteen possible values to stop it from starting a car that's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to purchase and require a specific key programming device that can only be located at certain locksmiths.<br /><br />VATS Keys<br /><br />Before transponder keys or cars with computer chips that control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS utilizes a standard key with a pellet of resistance embedded within it to verify that the correct key is being used to start the car. The black VATS Pellet located in the middle of a VATS Key isn't a smart chip like those present on modern keys. It's just a block or carbon that is sized to hold an electrical resistance.<br /><br />GM employed 15 different resistances for VATS pellets and connected them to key blades so that when the key was turned in the ignition the key blades transmit a coded message to the module. If the signal is in line with the one of the transistors in a VATS pellet then the relay in the starter circuit will be activated and the engine will begin to run. This doesn't make a car safe from burglary, but it can delay thieves for at least fifteen to twenty minutes.<br /><br />Unfortunately, after <a href="https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-cutting-near-me/">G28CarKeys</a> of use the VATS module in your car could start to wear out. Each time the key is inserted into the ignition it moves two tiny wires inside the ignition, and over time the wires could start to break. When enough wires break then the signal to the module is lost and the module won't be able to start the car.<br /><br />The good news is that you can fix this problem yourself at home by decoding your own VATS key. It's not difficult to determine the resistance of a key by using the multimeter. All you need to do is put one of the leads of your ohm gauge on the prongs of metal that are hanging out on both sides of the key, then examine the display of your ohm meter to find out the resistance of your key.<br /><br />This is also a good way to test a new key to see whether it works in your car. Make sure you remove the key from the ignition prior to testing it, as the new key may have an incorrect VATS number and will not work in your vehicle.<br /><br />Smart Key Fobs with Smart Keys<br /><br />Key fobs today can do more than unlock or start the car. They often have advanced features that many owners are not aware of. They can be used as a security device or a theft deterrent. They can lock and unlock your door from a distance and make chirping sounds to help you locate your vehicle when you're in a hurry or activate it by pressing the button. This is more features than you obtain from a traditional keychain remote. Unfortunately, all that extra functionality also means that smart key fobs can be pricier to replace than traditional keychain remotes, and they usually require programming by the dealer.<br /><br />In fact, some dealers will charge upwards of $100 to replace a single smart key fob. It's a huge price for a device that is often tossed around in purses and pockets in the event that it gets damaged, dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity. Certain automakers have developed strategies to protect smart keyfobs from common electronic threats, including relay attacks. These are typically combined with a remote start hack that allows thieves access to your vehicle's settings through the transmission of a fake signal from another transmitter nearby.<br /><br />One way to protect a smart key fob is to put it in a metal case or use a specially designed RFID blocking case that blocks the transmission of these signals. The ease of use of this technology is diminished if you have to take your key fob out every time you need to use it from the case.<br /><br />Fortunately, a few of the latest car insurance policies, auto club memberships, and extended warranty coverage will cover the cost of a replacement or reimburse you for the lost fob. You can also save money on dealer charges and have your fob cut at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store who offers key fob cloning.<br /><br />For the majority of drivers, the decision to purchase an extra key fob will depend on how crucial your car's keyless entry and push button starter functions are. In any event it is advisable to keep a spare fob or key in case you lose it. Batteries Plus offers a large selection of replacement fobs that fit on most cars and trucks. Additionally, our fast and convenient service costs about 50% less than what you would buy from the dealership.<br /><br />Traditional Keys<br /><br />The traditional car key is a single piece of metal with a series of grooves cut into it. These grooves are made to fit specific locks. These keys can open your locks and start the car, as long as you don't swap them out for a smart key or remote key. The only downside of using a traditional car key is that you must physically insert it into the ignition to start the engine. If your car key has been lost or broken you'll need to visit an Gainesville locksmith to get a new one made.<br /><br />You have a few options to choose from depending on how long it has been since you had your keys cut. Some keys use mechanical cutting machines to make copies, while others use laser-cut keys that are designed with enhanced security features in mind.<br /><br />Modern keys come with advanced features, such as encryption and anti-theft mechanisms. Encryption makes it harder for thieves to duplicate keys or pick locks. Other security features that prevent theft include transponder chips that are incorporated into the key to connect with your car and make it work only when it's within the range of your car.<br /><br />If you decide to make use of a traditional key, your locksmith can make the new key using an ordinary cutter machine that can be bought at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than using a key fob or a transponder key, and you'll still be able to use your locks, doors and trunk.<br /><br />Another alternative is to have your standard car key replaced with a laser-cut version with a distinctive pattern. These keys first came out in the 1990s and are now a popular option for those looking to add extra protection to their vehicles. The majority of laser cut keys contain transponder chips that are designed to work only with the specific vehicle you own. If the chips aren't present in your car, it won't respond to the signals from the key and won't start.<br /><br />