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Car Key Cutting Explained

Car key cutting is much more than just forming an object of metal. It is a complicated procedure that ensures safety, functionality and longevity of keys.

It is not uncommon to lose keys to your car, or even have them break into the lock. To ensure that you are able to always drive your vehicle, you will need a new key cut.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips are likely to be added to cars that were built in the last 20 years. These microchips are tiny inside the handle of your key that transmit an electronic signal to the car's onboard computer when you are using it. The onboard computer detects the digital serial number within the chip and allows the car to start if it is the correct one. This prevents car thieves from stealing your car because they'd have to know the unique serial number.

The microchip inside the key transmits a low-level signal to the receiver within the car. This radio signal activates the microchip, which transmits a code to the computer onboard of the car. The car will be able to recognize the code and only allow it to start when the key is the correct one. This prevents the use of "hot wiring" and other methods of stealing cars.

Car keys with chips can be made by a locksmith that offers these services. They can also be bought at a few automotive stores, such as AutoZone. Those stores carry a huge selection of keys and can help you get 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.

You can also purchase laser cut keys, which are more secure than traditional flat keys. They are more secure than flat keys due to the fact that they have locks that are harder to pick. They can only be duplicated with expensive laser key cutting equipment, or specialized software. This technology is more common in luxury vehicles, but it is now accessible in a variety of affordable cars too.

Another type of car key that is difficult to duplicate is the VATS (vehicle anti-theft system) key. These keys feature a black resistor on the blade of the key that is programmed with one of 15 potential values to prevent them from starting a car that it's not designed to. These keys are more expensive to buy and require a special key programming device that can only be located at certain locksmiths.

Keys to VATS

Before transponder keys or cars with computer chips built in to control the ignition, GM used a system known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). VATS makes use of a regular key with a resistor pellet embedded inside it to confirm that the correct key is used to start the vehicle. The VATS black pellet that is inside the middle of the VATS key isn't an electronic chip as present in modern smart keys, it is simply a carbon block appropriately sized to have an exact electrical resistance.

GM employed 15 different resistance values for the VATS pellets and attached them to the blade of the key so that when the key is turned on the ignition a coded signal will be transmitted to the module. If the signal matches the resistance value of the transistor in the VATS pellet, the relay in the starter circuit is activated and the engine begins to run. This doesn't make a vehicle theft proof, but it will delay the thief by at most 15 to 20 minutes.

After a prolonged period of usage the VATS module may begin to wear out. The two small wires in the ignition move each time a key is placed. As time passes the wires can start to break. Once enough of the wires break, the signal to the module is not received and it will not start the car.

You can resolve this issue at home by decoding your VATS code. You'll require a multimeter as well as a chart to find out the resistance value of your key, but it's not difficult at all. All you need to do is place one of the leads of your ohm meter onto the prongs of metal that are sticking out on both sides of the key. Then read the ohm meter's display to determine the resistance of your key.

This is a great opportunity to test out a new key and check whether it will work in your vehicle. Remove the ignition key first before you test it. If not the key could have an incorrect VATS and not function in your vehicle.

Smart Key Fobs for Keys

Key fobs today are more than simply unlock or start the vehicle. They often have advanced features that most owners are unaware of. They can be used as a security device or as a theft deterrent. They can remotely lock and unlock your doors, make noises that help you find your car in a parking lot and even allow you to summon your vehicle by pressing the button on your smartphone. This is more functionality than you get from a standard keychain remote. Smart key fobs are more expensive to replace due their extra functions. They also have to be programmed at the dealer.

In fact, some retailers will cost upwards of $100 to replace one smart key fob. This is a significant amount to pay for something that spends much of its time in purses and pockets where it can be easily damaged, dropped or exposed to moisture and extreme temperatures. Fortunately there are automakers who have developed ways to protect smart key fobs from common types of electronic threats like relay attacks. They are usually paired with a remote start hack that allows thieves access to your vehicle's settings by the transmission of a fake signal from another transmitter near.

To secure a smart card, you can store it in a metal case or put it in an RFID blocking case. This will block the transmission of these signals. However, having to take the key fob from its protective case every time you want to use it undermines the convenience of the technology.

Some newer policies such as auto club memberships and extended warranties, will pay for an additional fob or reimburse you if it is lost. You can also save money on new car dealer charges and have your fob cut at an establishment like a locksmith or hardware store who offers key fob cloning.

The decision of whether to purchase an additional fob is based on the importance of your car's keyless entry and start functions. You should always keep an extra key or fob on hand in case you lose yours. If you do need to buy a new replacement, Batteries Plus has a wide selection of fobs for most cars and trucks. Additionally, we provide an efficient, quick service that is roughly 50% less than the price you'd pay at the dealership.

Traditional Keys

The classic car key is a single piece of metal with a series of grooves cut into it. These grooves are made to fit specific locks. They can unlock your locks and start the car, provided you don't swap them out to a smart or remote key. The only downside of using a traditional car key is that you have to 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 created.

There are several options to choose from depending on how long it's been since you were able to cut your keys. Certain keys are cut with mechanical machines, while others are laser-cut with security features that are enhanced.

Some of these features that come with the modern types of keys include encryption and other security mechanisms. cutting car keys near me makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate keys or take locks. Other security features that prevent theft include transponder chips that are embedded in the key to connect with your car and make it work only when it's within a specific distance of your vehicle.


If you choose to use a traditional, standard key, a locksmith can create a new key with a standard key cutting machine that can be found at most hardware stores. This is less expensive than a key fob or transponder, and you will still be able to use your locks, trunk and doors.

You can also replace your standard car keys with a laser-cut version that has an unique pattern. These keys first came out in the 1990s, and they're a popular choice for those who wish to provide extra security to their automobiles. The majority of laser cut keys contain transponder chips that are designed to work only for your specific vehicle. If the chips aren't present in your vehicle it won't respond to the signals transmitted by the key.

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