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How to Get a Car Key Cut If you have lost or damaged the car key it's a good idea to get it replaced as soon as possible. This will stop thieves from starting your car quickly. You should also have duplicate keys for the vehicle. This will save you time and money in the event in the event of an emergency. Keys equipped with transponder chips In the past, if you lost your car keys it was possible to bring it to an area locksmith or hardware store to have a replacement one cut. You'd get a standard key with an aluminum cap which contained the transponder. The chip transmits a signal to the car when you turn the key in the ignition. The car's computer then searches for this serial number to unlock it, or even start it. If it can't find the code, the car won't start and you won't be allowed to drive away. You'll be able to tell if your car key contains a chip because it is thicker. It may also sport the appearance of a black or grey head. It can be integrated with a remote, or be kept in your purse, pocket or bag and feature an option to push a button to start the car. This type of key works with most vehicles, but it must be programmed for your vehicle's system. Keys that have chips are more expensive than regular keys, but they are more secure against theft. Locksmiths need specialized equipment to duplicate keys that have chip and a working key from your vehicle. However, this type of key is not immune to tampering. Before leaving your vehicle, you should close all the doors and shut your windows. A key that has a chip transponder is an electronic microchip built into the head. This is the reason they are often called “chip” or “transponder” keys. The manufacturer of the vehicle programs the chips with a unique code. When the key is placed in the ignition the antenna ring emits a radio frequency energy in a burst. The transponder absorbs the energy and sends the signal along with the identification code to the receiver inside the ignition. The computer of the vehicle uses this information to verify that only valid keys are being used. Your car won't start in the event that the code on your transponder is not in line with the code in your ECM. This technology was created to protect against theft of vehicles by making it difficult for thieves to duplicate or copy your car key. Keys that don't have a transponder chip The loss of your car key could be a big inconvenience. You'll need to locate a replacement key and have it programmed, which could be a lengthy process. If you have an extra key, this is a lot easier. Finding someone who can cut keys with the correct code is difficult especially for modern vehicles. Most modern keys contain a chip that communicates with your car in order to prevent theft. These chips require specialized equipment that only dealerships can utilize and that's why a lot of people visit a dealer if they have lost their car keys. The first step is to determine what type of key you require. Certain older models still have mechanical keys, while others have transponder chips. These transponder chips are created to stop theft by connecting to the vehicle's computer, and confirming that it is a genuine key. They are also more difficult to duplicate because they feature laser-cut grooves that cannot be easily copied with the use of a grinder. Some modern vehicles have an intelligent key that functions as a remote and doesn't require the traditional method of turning the ignition. The majority of hardware stores will create a duplicate of your mechanical key. The process is fairly cost-effective, and the final product will function just as well as your original. You'll need your vehicle's VIN number as well as a working key to the store, which will allow them to trace the exact contours of your blank key. Some stores have machines that can scan the immobilizer in order to verify that the new key works with your vehicle. If you own a transponder key, the process is more complicated. The keys need to be programmed and the chip needs to match the codes of the car. This is an additional security feature that could aid in preventing theft and most of the time your vehicle won't start if it discovers that there isn't a matching chip. This is why it is important to always have a spare key on your side. Keys with the key fob Modern features, key fobs can be used to unlock doors and start cars with the press of the button. They communicate with the computer onboard of the vehicle by using radio waves. However, they can be vulnerable to security threats. To avoid theft and unauthorized access, it's essential to protect the fobs. Here are some things you should be aware of about your key fob to safeguard it from theft. If you're looking for an alternative key or want to make sure that you have one in the event that you lose yours, you should visit a professional locksmith for the task. They can design keys that are laser-cut and compatible with your vehicle. They can also reprogram your car to recognize the new key. You may be tempted to cut your keys at a big-box store such as Lowe's or Home Depot if you're in need of help. However, the reality is that these retailers are not experts in the field of automotive, so they can't offer you the services that an actual locksmith would offer. In addition, they often don't have the right key cutting machine for automobiles. A key fob has an exclusive contour that has to be accurately copied. You could also visit your local dealer, but this is more expensive. Dealerships are required to adhere strictly to policies and have set prices. They also report to car companies, shareholders and expect quarterly monetary gains. To save time, you can also find key-cutting kiosks like KeyMe in various locations. These kiosks can create a simple, one-time key on-site. Keys that are more complicated can be delivered directly to your home. The cost is only a fraction of what you would pay at a dealer. If you're not in a rush it could be a great alternative to returning to the manufacturer. However, you must ensure that the key you choose is the same thickness as the original. If not, it will not fit in the lock. Keys with a keyless entry system Keyless entry and proximity keys systems are gaining popularity in new cars. However these new technologies can be a bit complicated and you should get a professional handling them. A locksmith can explain how these systems function and how they can help you save money. In addition, a locksmith can also fix your proximity key or program it for you. This could help you save time and money. The first step to changing your car key to determine which type of key you have. Older models only require a standard-cut key, but most modern vehicles have keys with transponder chip that needs to be programmed. A locksmith or a dealer can help you with this. You can also save money by creating a spare key by yourself and programming it. This can be done with several automakers, but you must follow the guidelines in the owner's manual. You can also go to a big box retailer or a hardware store. Some of these stores have key-cutting equipment that can copy a standard key in minutes. Make sure you choose an uncut key that is the thickness of the original key. If you're looking to cut down more time, try a key-cutting kiosk such as KeyMe. This service has locations in most cities and cuts most common keys at the kiosk. If you're buying a used vehicle, think about having the key fob resettled to erase previous owner details from your car's database. This will stop thieves from using the device which is able to capture and transmit the signals to the keyfob. Relay crime is increasing and it's possible the key fob that was stolen could be used to start the engine of an unrelated vehicle. Locksmiths are the best option for cutting car keys because they are able to provide all the details about the most popular models. Locksmiths also offer other services such as reprogramming the key fob of the car or unlocking doors. These services are more affordable than dealerships, however they require expertise and knowledge.