The locks of your car are just as important as the ones in your home. And just like there are different keys for your home, there are different ones for your car.
Mechanical Key
Mechanical keys are the traditional form of car keys. They look remarkably similar to regular house keys with notches and cuts. These are the easiest to replicate if lost. While this type of key is slowly losing popularity, some domestic trucks still use mechanical keys. Chevrolet, GM, and Ford are among some of the companies.
Laser-Cut Keys
Also known as “sidewinder” or “internal cut”, laser-cut keys are among the more advance automobile keys. They have blunt edges and identical cuts on the flat sides. Because of this, the key can be inserted into the ignition both ways. These keys require special equipment for production making it harder to replicate. The lock itself is also harder to pick because of the unique shape of the key. While laser-cut keys used to be expensive, its growing popularity has allowed companies such as Honda and Kia to offer the option along with luxury vehicles like Mercedes.
Transponder Keys
Most cars nowadays have transponder keys. What makes a transponder key is not the cut of the key, but rather the computer chip inside the key handle. The key itself can be mechanical-cut or laser-cut. If you have a transponder lock, neither will work without the transponder key because the vehicle is immobilized. The chip sends a signal to unlock the immobilizer which allows the driver to start the engine. These keys provide additional security because each transponder is programmed to respond to a specific car. Reproducing the transmission, while not impossible, is difficult.
Smart Keys
Smart keys are, in a way, like universal remotes for the car. The fob has a laser-cut key built into it that doesn’t need to be used. Instead, everything is started by remote. A press of a button on the key fob will unlock the doors and the trunk. Instead on the usual ignition, cars with smart keys usually have a push button ignition that activates when the key is close by. Just press it to start the car. Some companies have gone so far as to allowing individual settings programmed into the key. Unlock the car with a smart key and the car will automatically adjust steering wheel position, mirror settings, seat positions, etc., to personal preferences.
Valet Keys
Usually given with the regular keys, valet keys are car keys that have been slightly altered. When using valet keys, the user can only unlock the doors and start the ignition. They are not able to access the glove box or the trunk. As the name suggests, it is convenient when handing over your keys to a valet or a stranger.
Chicago Locksmith
If you’re ever locked out of your car in Chicago, give Chicago locksmith a call. We have both the technology and skills to deal with all the keys previously mentioned. We can replicate mechanical keys on site and duplicate laser-cut keys as well. If you have any problems with your transponder key, we know how to deal with the programming. We can even re-key your car locks and replace your ignition. All of our locksmiths are trained and certified so don’t stress. We can deal with any issues you may have with your car locks
