Types of Ignition Key Replacement
The blade-style car key is the easiest to use. It's as simple as inserting it into your ignition lock cylinder and you're good to go. Older cars use keys like this, but newer models use transponder chips inside the keys that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
The keys can be replaced by a dealer or automotive locksmith. They can provide the replacement using your vehicle's VIN number.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips can be found in cars manufactured in the last 20 years. It's a combination of electronic and mechanical security. It works by sending a coded message to the vehicle once you insert the ignition key. The engine control unit checks this code against its own database to determine if you are the authorized vehicle owner. If you are, the car will begin. The process is not visible and takes only milliseconds.
If you own a transponder key, you will be able to detect a small electronic chip on the surface of your key. Inserting the key in your ignition and turning it on is the easiest method to test. If your vehicle responds to the key, it means that it has been programmed and verified as an authentic transponder.
This is because, while traditional keys are used to match the lock tumblers to unlock the vehicle, transponder chips transmit an electronic signal directly to the computer. G28CarKeys stops individuals from hot-wiring their car by making sure the right key is used.
Follow these steps to reprogram the transponder. First, make sure that the key is in good working state and put it away. Then, sit in the driver's seat and insert your new key blank into the ignition, turning it on. Leave it there for about 15 minutes and then turn the ignition off. After that, you can try to start the car again. If it doesn't start then you'll need to repeat the process of turning off and on the car.
Reprogramming a car key with a transponder is more difficult and costly than replicating mechanical keys. In addition, you'll need to have the key cut professionally and a specific car key programer is required to remove the code from your ECM and then match it to the new transponder key.
Smart Keys Keys
With smart keys, a driver can unlock their doors and start the engine by pressing a button without having to insert the key into the ignition. The fob contains a transponder that communicates with an immobilizer in the car, disarming it so that the car can begin. The fob comes with remote control buttons that open the tailgate, unlock the trunk, and operate the door locks. Some have panic buttons that, when activated, loudly blasts the vehicle's horn to repel intruders.
Like all technology smart keys have advantages and disadvantages. They can provide convenience and enhanced security, especially for those who tend to not lock their cars. These features can also help save money over the long term.
Smart keys aren't just an excellent way to stop thieves from stealing cars as well, but they can aid you in avoiding the infamous phrase, "it's somewhere in here." Instead of using a metal key shaft, smart keys communicate with your car through radio frequency signals. As such, they can't be duplicated with the traditional key cut. This does not mean that you cannot find the key in the event that it is lost.
Depending on the manufacturer, smart keys could be more expensive than traditional groove cut keys based on the manufacturer. The main reason is that smart keys come with built-in electronic components, which make them more complex and harder to repair in the event of malfunction.
Luckily, Pop-A-Lock is able to replace and program most smart keys for a fraction of the cost of a dealership. We can even do it in a much less timeframe, which will save you the inconvenience of having to plan alternative transportation until your car is repaired. So, if you're considering purchasing a smart key for your car, do yourself a favour and purchase a spare fob to keep in a safe location, or purchase motor insurance that has a substantial payout in the event of losing your keys. Keep it out of the prying eyes. Low frequency transmissions permit the theft of your car.
Switchblade Keys
When it is time to replace the ignition key, there are a few different options to choose from. The traditional key is the most common one, and has an iron shaft with distinct cutouts or notches which correspond to tumblers for the lock in the ignition cylinder and door. They lack advanced features like remote unlocking or keyless entry however, they are durable and simple to use.
Transponder keys, on other hand, represent a significant leap forward in automotive security technology. These keys feature an electronic chip inside the head of the key that communicates with a receiver within the vehicle, allowing it to start only when the correct code is sent. This type of key is extremely effective in reducing automotive crime. The process of programming a transponder and key for an experienced locksmith is relatively simple.
Flip-style keys are a different kind of key that tucks away the blade when not in use. This helps protect the blade of the key from damage, and makes it easier to carry. The key fob part of this type of key typically includes remote control functions, allowing users to lock and unlock the trunk or car doors and start the engine from a distance.
For those looking for a new protection against car theft, laser cut keys are available. These keys have their shanks cut by the help of a laser, resulting in a more precise and difficult to replicate pattern. Although these keys are more expensive than basic keys and key fobs but they also provide more security against theft by unauthorized users.
Switchblade keys are also available that resemble bladed weapons, and can fold up into a handle when they are not being used. When the user presses a button the handle opens and exposes the key blade as a switchblade knife would. Locksmiths can repair the key blade or key fob component of this kind of key, but they're somewhat more expensive than simple replacements.
Smart keys are the most recent innovation in automotive security. They offer a fully-electronic system for unlocking and starting your car. They communicate with your vehicle through antennas that are embedded into the car's frame and body. This eliminates the requirement for traditional key blades and the need to insert the key into the ignition. The most sophisticated models even have the ability to lock and start your car without having to be inserted into the ignition however this requires you are within reach of the vehicle.
Key Fobs
Key fobs work as remotes that allow you to start and lock your car without touching the ignition. They are small, rectangular and come with buttons that perform many functions. From locking the doors to remotely starting your car they can do it all. They are attached to the key with small plastic cases, which may have buttons to open the trunk or set off an alarm.
Some cars of recent years also come with a combination key that provides both a traditional key shank and a key fob, with the latter usually controlling the ignition. They are also referred to as "transponder keys."
Many modern car owners utilize their key fobs as a means of accessing their vehicle, and the majority people don't even know that they are doing it. While these gadgets are great for enhancing the experience of driving, they also come with certain disadvantages that need to be taken into consideration.
The most obvious problem is that a key fob can be unable to charge. The electronic signals that unlock your vehicle and allow it to start work by sending a code to the computer in your car and when the signal is disrupted or is lost the key fob will not be able to operate the car.
Fortunately modern key fobs have been designed to deter these kinds of threats. They are usually programmed to send random numbers to the car system every time they send signals. This prevents old codes from being re-used and renders any stolen keys useless for thieves.
If the key is lost the key fob will serve as a backup to start and unlock the car. Some manufacturers even go one step further and offer applications that can be used to control the vehicle in the event that you fail to locate your key fob.
If you have an old key fob that requires to be replaced, it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith. They can assist you and their services are usually cheaper than those of dealers.