How To Tell The Ignition Key Replacement That's Right For You

Types of Ignition Key Replacement The blade style car key is the simplest to use. auto key stuck in ignition 's as simple as inserting it into your ignition lock cylinder and you're good to go. Older cars use these keys however, modern models have transponder chips within the keys, which must be programmed to work with your vehicle. You can typically replace these keys at an auto dealership or locksmith. They can make a replacement using your car's VIN number. Transponder Keys Transponder chips are typically present in vehicles built within the last 20 years. This technology is a combination of mechanical security and electronic security. It transmits an encrypted message to the vehicle once you insert the ignition key. The engine control unit checks the code against its internal database to determine if you are the authorized vehicle owner. If it is the case, the car will begin. The process happens in milliseconds, and is not visible to the naked eye. There will be a tiny chip on the front of your key if it is a transponder. Inserting the key in your ignition and turning it on is the most efficient method to test. If your vehicle responds to the key this means that it has been programmed and confirmed as a valid transponder. The reason this adds an extra layer of security is that while traditional keys rely on a match with the tumblers of the lock transponder chips actually send an electronic signal to the car's computer. This prevents people from hot-wiring their cars by ensuring that the right key is used to turn on the ignition system. Follow these easy steps to reprogram the transponder. First, ensure that the key functions and then put it aside. Then, get in the driver's seat and insert your new blank key into the ignition, turning it to the off position. You should leave it for about 15 minutes, and then turn off the ignition. After 15 minutes, you are able to try to start the car once more. If the car doesn't start after turning it off and on, you'll have to repeat this procedure. Reprogramming transponder keys is more complicated and expensive than duplicating a regular mechanical car key. In addition, you'll require the key cut professionally and a car key programming device is required to extract the code from your ECM and match it with a new transponder keys. Smart Keys Smart keys allow drivers to unlock doors and start their engines with a single touch, without having to put the key in the ignition. The fob has a transponder that communicates with an immobilizer inside the vehicle, disarming it to ensure that the car can be started. The fob usually has remote control function buttons that control door locks, open the trunk, and open the tailgates. Some have a panic button that when activated, blasts the vehicle's sound to dissuade intruders. Smart keys aren't different. They have their advantages and disadvantages, just like every other technology. However, they can provide greater security and comfort – especially for those who have an inclination to not lock the car. These features can help you save money over time. Smart keys are not only a great way to prevent thieves from stealing cars as well, but they can help you avoid the age-old phrase, “it's somewhere in here.” Instead of using a metal key shaft smart keys communicate with your car via radio frequency signals. Therefore, they cannot be duplicated with keys cut in the traditional way. However, this doesn't mean that you can't locate the key should it occur to be lost. Smart keys can be more expensive depending on the manufacturer. The reason for this is that smart keys are equipped with electronic components, which makes them more complex and harder to repair in the event of a malfunction. Pop-A Lock can replace and program smart keys for only a fraction of the price dealerships charge. We can even complete the process in a shorter time frame, saving you the hassle of having to arrange for alternative transportation until your car is repaired. If you're thinking about getting a smart car key, you can purchase a spare to keep in a secure location or purchase a motor covers that pay out if you lose your keys. Just make sure you keep it out of reach from prying eyes – low frequency transmissions can allow someone to pick up your signal and take your car, reports How Stuff Works Electronics. Switchblade Keys When it is time to replace the ignition key, there are a few alternatives available. The traditional key is the most commonly used, and it has an iron shaft with distinct cutouts or notches that correspond with lock tumblers on the ignition cylinder and door. They do not have advanced features such as remote unlocking or keyless entry, however they are reliable and easy to use. Transponder keys represent an important technological advancement in the field of automotive security. These keys have an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the receiver inside the vehicle. The vehicle will only start when the correct code has been sent. This type of key is very effective in reducing the amount of crime committed by automobiles. The process of programming a transponder and key for an experienced locksmith is relatively simple. Flip-style keys are a type of key that folds away the blade when being used. This helps protect the blade from damage, and also reduces weight for easier carrying. This kind of key comes with keys that come with remote control features. Drivers can lock and unlock car doors, trunks, and start their engines from a distance. Laser cut keys are available for those looking to add an extra layer of security against auto theft. The shanks of these keys are cut using a laser, creating an extremely precise and difficult to duplicate pattern. These keys are more expensive than traditional keys and key fobs but they provide a higher level of security. Switchblade keys are also available as bladed weapons and can fold up into a handle when they are not being used. The handle opens when a button is pressed, which exposes the blade of the key. Locksmiths can repair the key blade or the key fob part of this type of key, however, they're a bit more costly than basic replacements. Smart keys are the most recent advancement in security for vehicles. They provide a completely electronic system for unlocking and opening your car. They communicate with your vehicle through antennas that are embedded into the car's frame and body. This eliminates the need for traditional key blades and the requirement to insert the key into the ignition. Some of the most advanced models are able to lock and start the car without being inserted into the ignition. However you must be within the range of. Key Fobs Key fobs work as remotes that let you lock and start your car without touching the ignition. They are small, rectangular and have buttons for a variety of functions. From locking the doors to remotely starting your car, they can do everything. They are attached to the key with a small plastic case that may include buttons to open the trunk and set off an alarm. Certain newer vehicles include the combination key, which combines a traditional key shank and key fob. The latter is typically used to control the ignition. These are also known as “transponder keys.” The majority of modern car owners don't realize that they are using their keys to unlock their vehicles. While these devices are great for making driving more convenient but they do have some drawbacks that should be taken into consideration. The most obvious issue is that the key fob's battery can die. The key fob transmits an encoded code to unlock and start your vehicle. If the signal is lost or interrupted, the key will not be able to operate the car. Luckily, the majority of modern key fobs are made to withstand such threats. They are typically programmed with a sequence of random numbers that can be used to generate unique unlocking sequences each time they transmit an alert to the car's system. This stops the old codes from being reused, and makes any key stolen ineffective for thieves. If the key is lost the key fob can be used as a backup to start and unlock the car. Some manufacturers have even gone one step further and created apps that can be downloaded to the phone and used to control a car, in the event that you're not able to locate your key fob. A professional locksmith can help replace the lost key fob. They can assist you, and their services are generally less expensive than those offered by dealerships.