Has your only car key met an untimely end, or do you want a couple of copies made so you can have extras in case you lose one or lock one in your car? Regardless of your car’s age, odds are that the replacement keys for your current model differ technologically from the basic metal keys that were standard just a couple of decades ago. As automotive technology has advanced and become more complicated, so have the keys. and for the majority of late-model vehicles, you can’t go to the hardware store to have new copies cut because they don’t have the specialized equipment and skills to program chip keys, remotes, and fobs. But don’t worry, the 24/7 mobile locksmiths of Anderson Lock & Safe will come to you to replace your car keys at a lower cost than you’ll pay at the dealership.
Understanding Automotive Key Types
A variety of transponder keys, fobs, remotes, and remote head keys.
The days of single-side metal keys (one for the ignition and one for the doors) are almost entirely in the past as vehicles evolve technologically. Today’s cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and even motorcycles have keys that communicate with the engine’s onboard computer via small transponder chips. Here are a few of the most common types:
- Transponder Key: Also called chip keys, these have a tiny chip embedded inside the plastic head that communicates with a vehicle’s onboard computer. If the chip isn’t programmed correctly the computer won’t recognize it and the car’s immobilizer system will prevent the engine from starting.
- Key Fob/Remote: Like transponder keys, key fobs transmit a code that allows you to start the engine. They also allow you to lock and unlock the doors and even set off the car’s alarm system when necessary.
- Flip Key: Also called switchblade keys, the key folds within the plastic remote when not in use, and when you want to unlock a door or insert the key in the ignition you press a button that flips the key out.
- Remote Head Key: This is an all-in-one key and remote that has the lock, unlock, and panic buttons in the plastic head of the key.
Our Car Key Replacement Process
Replacing or duplicating an automotive key involves a few different steps which can vary depending on the make/model of your vehicle, but here’s a basic overview of the process:
- Cut copies of an existing key: If we’re making copies of an existing key we’ll use a standard key cutter for keys with teeth, or a laser cutter for high-security keys that have a waved groove down the middle of the key.
- Originate a key from scratch: If you’ve lost all your keys we can originate new keys by “reading” the pin pattern in the ignition lock cylinder with a specialized tool.
- Program the key/remote/fob: Once the metal key has been cut we program the chip with your car’s unique access code using a variety of specialized computer and programming equipment.
- QA Test: We take great pride in our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee and always test your new keys multiple times to make sure they work flawlessly.
Our Affordable and Convenient Mobile Service is Here For You 24/7
With over 50 years in the industry, Anderson Lock & Safe has the experience and skill to cut and program car key replacements for a wide variety of foreign and domestic vehicles. Since we’re also a mobile locksmith service we handle all your car key needs on-site at your home, office, or a parking lot when you need emergency service. You can also rest assured that Anderson Lock and Safe is almost always going to be the more affordable and most convenient option compared to the dealership.
In addition to our top-notch car key services, we’re a full-service locksmith that provides mobile residential, commercial, access control, automotive ignition repair, and lock rekeying services in the Phoenix, AZ metro region. Contact us today to discuss your needs and we’ll be happy to provide you with a free no-obligation service quote!