15 Shocking Facts About Keys Cut For Cars Types of Keys Cut For Cars

A new car key is expensive. From a locksmith to the dealership spare keys can cost hundreds of dollars, particularly ones that come with transponders or smart key fobs.

The process of cutting keys is more than just forming an object of metal however. To cut different types of keys, specialized equipment and techniques are required.

Traditional Keys

Traditional car keys are cut with the help of a mechanical key-cutting device. The edges of the key are designed to align with the pin pattern inside the lock and allow the key to open the lock. Keys like these are commonly used in older vehicles that do not have security encoding. The traditional car key is also cheaper to manufacture than other types of keys and is available at any hardware store or locksmith.

To get a new key for your car first, you have to decide the kind of key you require. If you have an old-fashioned key made of metal that does not have a chip, you can simply have an AutoZone associate make a copy of your original key. You can do this by choosing the right key blank for your car's year, make and model, and then using a key cutting machine to trace the original key's shape on the blank. This process will take only a few moments and is the cheapest way to obtain a replacement car key.

Another alternative is to have a locksmith cut your new key. This is a bit more expensive option, however it offers extra security. Instead of cutting along the edge of the key the laser is used to cut the key along its edge or down its center. g28carkeys.co.uk makes the key stronger and stronger, making it more difficult to pick for thieves. You may not be able drive your car with a laser-cut, as it cannot unlock the engine.

Modern car models come with keys that include transponders or other types of chip. These types of keys need a specific programming tool to work, and the car won't start if it receives the wrong signal. Smart keys are an alternative. They function more like remotes and are able to unlock and start the car with just a touch of the button. These keys must be programmed to match the car, but they are more convenient than the traditional key. If, however, you own an electronic key and it is lost or stolen it is necessary to contact the manufacturer of your car.

Transponder Keys

A transponder is more advanced than the conventional flat keys made of metal. Transponder keys have a microchip embedded in the head of plastic that transmits an ID code when used to unlock or start the car. The car will not turn over if the chip is damaged or missing. It is therefore very important that you do not lose your transponder and keep it safe.

It is possible to identify the transponder key by the fact that it comes with a slightly different and much larger plastic head than the normal key. Additionally, the head is equipped with an antenna ring on it which is used to transmit this ID code to the car's computer. If the car is able to match the ID code with an authorized key, it will deactivate the immobilizer and allow the engine to continue to run.

It is a relatively new form of anti-theft tech that has proven successful in keeping thefts at bay. While the majority of cars that are on the market today have this technology, some older vehicles do not.

You should contact an auto locksmith when you need to duplicate the transponder. These companies will use special equipment to duplicate the key that is already in your vehicle and be able to program it with the computer in the car. Certain brands of cars allow you to do this yourself by following the directions in their owner's guide but you should talk to a professional for assistance if you aren't at ease doing it yourself.

Certain car keys are more straightforward than others to duplicate. Although they aren't transponder keys, they can still be duplicated by anyone with the use of a few tools. Transponder keys require a specific device to copy. If you lose your key, you will need to visit a locksmith like Beishir Lock and Security that has access to this equipment. The locksmith is usually able to program your replacement key to connect with the immobilizer system in the vehicle at a fraction of the cost it costs to visit the dealership.

Laser Keys

A lot of newer cars come with keys that are more thick than the bladed keys. These keys are more difficult to duplicate, particularly in the absence of a transponder chip. This makes it harder for thieves to steal an extra key, and assists in keeping your vehicle more secure, because it is difficult for them to start the car with the physical key.

These keys are cut using high-security equipment, by locksmiths who are who is certified in the field. They are sometimes referred to as sidewinder keys or laser cut keys or flip keys. They are a great option to increase your cars security. They are also available in most locksmith shops for automotive however, make sure they have the right equipment as these types of keys are made with an entirely different lock cylinder and require a special type of machine to cut them.

The cuts are not as deep on these keys, unlike the old-style bladed keys. Instead the cuts are made using a milling machine that removes the metal in a precise and calibrated depth. The key code is used by the locksmith to determine the settings of the machine that will create the duplicate. If the machine isn't set up correctly it could cause damage to the key cutting machine or even damage your lock cylinders.


Another reason that these keys are harder to make is that the keys themselves have a different pattern that prevents them from working on multiple cars with the same lock combination. This is similar to how keys with a transponder inside need to be programmed by a dealer in order to work on your car.

They are typically an all-in-one unit that has an attached keyfob. They must be programmed by the dealership and usually cost more than a standard key that is only a blank key or an edge-cut. You will usually need to bring your current key and the dealership should have the equipment necessary to program it for you. A reputable automotive locksmith will also be able to assist you in this process, but it will typically cost a little more.

Smart Keys Keys

Smart keys are the most expensive and sophisticated type of car keys. They are basically key fobs with built-in sensors that can communicate with your vehicle via radio waves. They can lock your car and unlock it without a physical key. They can also start your vehicle. Some smart keys have a built in screen that lets you perform various functions, including navigation and music playing.

These smart keys also use anti-theft technology to prevent 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've made in your car and gives you security when you're away.

Modern automobiles are becoming more and more sophisticated, and that's why it's essential to know the differences between traditional and modern keys. When it's time to replace a key, knowing the various options available will assist you in making the best choice for your needs.

If you're interested in replacing your existing key, we can cut a brand new one using an original key or provide a transponder chip supplied by the manufacturer to program the new key into 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 possible. We also offer a variety of other automotive services including ignition repair and replacement.

No matter which type of key you have, it's always recommended to keep an extra spare on hand. The loss of your car key could be stressful, and costly should you have to go to the dealer to program it or call an locksmith. It's better to be proactive and purchase a spare key now before you lose one or need it replaced. Stop by today for a great price and fast service! We are your local, reliable automotive expert.