Types of Ignition Key Replacement

The most basic type of car key is the blade style that you insert into an ignition lock cylinder to begin your car. Older cars come with these kinds of keys however, modern models have transponder chips within the keys that must be programmed to work with the car.

You can typically replace these keys at an auto ignition key replacement dealer or locksmith. The VIN number of the vehicle can be used to create a new key.

Transponder Keys

If your car was made in the past 20 years, it's almost an absolute guarantee that it has a transponder chip embedded within. This technology is a combination of electronic and mechanical security. It transmits a coded message to the vehicle once you insert the ignition key. The engine control unit checks this code against its internal database to determine if you're the owner of the vehicle who is authorized. If it is, then the car will start. The process happens in milliseconds and is unnoticeable to the naked eye.

There will be a tiny chip on the front of your key if it is transponders. The most efficient way to test it is to insert the key into the ignition and turn it on. If your vehicle responds, that means that the key is programmed and successfully verified as being a valid transponder key.

The reason this provides an additional layer of security is that the traditional keys rely on a match with the tumblers of the lock transponder chips transmit an electronic signal to the car's computer. This prevents people from hot-wiring cars by ensuring that the right key is used to start the ignition system.

Follow these steps to reprogram the transponder. First, ensure the key is in good state and put it away. Then, you can insert the blank key into the ignition and turn the key to the "on" position. Leave it there for about 15 minutes, then turn off the ignition. Then, you can try starting the car again. If the car isn't starting after turning it off and on, you'll have to repeat this process.

Reprogramming a car key with a transponder is more complex and expensive than replicating mechanical keys. Additionally, you'll need to have the key professionally cut and a car key programming device is required to remove the code from your ECM and then match it to a new transponder key.

Smart Keys

Smart keys allow drivers to unlock doors and start engines by pressing a button without having to put the key in the ignition. Inside the fob is an electronic transponder that communicates with the car's immobilizer and disarms it to allow the car to start. The fob is usually equipped with remote control buttons that control the door locks, unlock the trunk and open tailgates. Some have panic buttons that when activated, blasts the vehicle's horn in order to scare off intruders.

Like all technology smart keys come with advantages and disadvantages. They do provide increased security and convenience - especially for those who have an inclination to not secure their vehicle. These features can also save you money in the long run.

Smart keys aren't just an excellent way to stop thieves from stealing vehicles as well, but they can assist you in avoiding the old phrase, "it's somewhere in here." Instead of using a traditional metal key shaft, smart keys communicate with your car via radio frequency signals. Therefore, they cannot be duplicated with a traditional key cut. However, this doesn't mean you won't be able to locate the key in case it's lost.

Smart keys are more expensive based on the manufacturer. This is because they are equipped with electronic components, making them more complex and difficult to repair if something goes wrong.

Pop-A-Lock is able to replace and program smart keys for less than what your dealership would charge. We can complete the process in a fraction of the time, avoiding having to plan alternative transportation while your car is being repaired. So, if you're considering purchasing a smart key for your car, do yourself a favour and buy a spare fob to keep in a secure location, or purchase motor insurance with a hefty payout in the event of losing your keys. Keep it out of the prying eyes. Low frequency transmissions allow the theft of your car.

Switchblade Keys

When it comes to ignition key replacement, there are a few different options available. The traditional key is the most popular one, and has a steel shaft that has distinct cutouts or notches that correspond to lock tumblers on the door and ignition cylinder. They aren't equipped with advanced features, such as remote unlocking or keyless entry however they are reliable and simple to use.

Transponder keys are a major advance in automotive security technology. These keys have an electronic chip in the head of the key that communicates with a receiver within the vehicle and allows it to start only when the correct code is sent. This type of key has been very effective in reducing the theft of vehicles and the process of programming a new key and transponder is quite simple for a professional car locksmith.

Another kind of key is the flip-style key that is designed to tuck the key blade inside an enclosure when not in use. This helps protect the blade of the key from being damaged, and makes it easier to carry. This type of key has keys that come with remote control features. Drivers can lock and unlock their car trunks, doors, or even start their engines remotely.

For those who are seeking an additional layer of protection against automotive theft, a laser cut key is available. These keys have their shanks cut by a laser, creating an extremely precise and difficult to replicate pattern. While they are more expensive than standard keys and traditional key fobs however, they provide more security against theft by unauthorized users.

Switchblade keys are also available that resemble bladed weapons and can fold down into a handle when they are not being used. When the user presses a button, the handle snaps open and exposes the key blade just as a switchblade knife would. Locksmiths can replace the key blade or the key fob in this kind of lock. However, they are more expensive than regular replacements.

Smart keys are the newest technological advancement in security for vehicles, offering a fully electronic method of unlocking and starting your car. The keys communicate with your vehicle using antennas embedded in the car frame and body. This eliminates the need for traditional key blades and the need to insert the key into the ignition. Some of the most advanced models can even lock and start the car without being inserted into the ignition. However, you must be within range.

Key Fobs

Key fobs work as remotes that allow you to lock and start your car without having to touch 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 be used for everything. They are attached to the car keys via tiny plastic cases that may include buttons to open the trunk or set off an alarm.

Certain newer vehicles have the combination key, which combines a traditional key shank with key fob. The latter is typically used to control the ignition. These are also known as "transponder keys."

Many modern car ignition switch owners do not realize that they are using their keys to unlock their vehicles. These devices can be fantastic for making driving more convenient, but they also have their own drawbacks.

The most obvious problem is that the key fob's battery may be dead. The key fob sends a code that is used to unlock and start your car. If the signal is lost or broken, the key will not be able to work the car.

Fortunately, modern key fobs are built to withstand such threats. They are usually programmed to send random numbers to the car's system each time they transmit a signal. This prevents the old codes from being reused, and makes any key stolen unusable for thieves.

If the key is lost ignition key the key fob can serve as a backup device to unlock and start the car. Some manufacturers have even taken it a step further by offering apps that can be downloaded onto the phone and used to control a car ignition switch replacement in the event you aren't able to locate your key fob.

If you have a key fob that needs to be replaced, it's best to connect with an experienced locksmith. They can help you out, and their services are likely to be less expensive than dealerships.