Types of Keys For Trucks
In the mid to late 90's, key manufacturers started putting a transponder chip in the head of their keys. The chip emits a signal that is read by the receiver inside of your ignition; if the code isn't in sync, the car won't start.
These are often referred to as "chip keys." Beishir can create these for you at less than the cost of a dealer.
Transponder Keys

A transponder key, also known as a chip key or an immobilizer key, is a small electronic microchip that is located in the head of a car key that contains a unique code. When the key inserted in the ignition, it sends an electronic signal to the computer in the vehicle that confirms that the key's activation and is genuine. If the code is valid the vehicle will be able to unlock the door and allow you to start your engine. It also disables any security devices. This technology eliminates theft and adds an extra layer of security for your vehicle.
Transponder keys look like normal keys, but have a plastic cap over the top of the key where the transponder is. thekeylab.co.uk can be either traditional flat cut keys or a laser cut one (also known as a sidewinder cut) or a tibbe-type key which is used in Jaguars and certain Ford models.
When the key is inserted into an ignition, a specific antenna inside the ignition ring sends out a burst of radio frequency energy to the transponder chip within the key. The chip responds by sending an encoded signal back to the ring of antennas. The vehicle's computer then verifies the signal and, if valid, allows the car to start.
The keys are not duplicated because the chips are unique. This has caused many customers to turn to dealerships for all their car key needs. This often results in high costs and long appointments. A professional automotive locksmith can re-programme or replace transponder keys at a fraction the cost.
A professional auto locksmith is also able to test the operation of a transponder. The expert will be able to look for physical damage to the key and the microchip and also confirm that the transponder is communicating with the vehicle's immobilizer system correctly. If the key is not communicating properly, it could show signs such as difficulty in starting the vehicle or error codes appearing on the dashboard.
Sidewinder Keys
A sidewinder is a type of car key that was designed to provide extra security for your vehicle. These keys are designed so that thieves can't pick your lock, bump your lock or rekey your ignition. They work by pairing the mechanical edge with a tiny RFID chip or RFID Emulation circuit. The chips emit radio frequencies that helps your car detect if the key is authorized, and permits it to turn on the engine.
A sidewinder is a great alternative to a transponder for your truck, even though it's not as well-known. It still provides you with increased security against theft. While these keys are difficult for thieves to pick or bump, they could still be damaged during a rekeying process. It is essential to employ a reputable locksmith to handle all of your key for your vehicle requirements.
These car keys were originally used by the automotive industry as a security tool in the early 90s. The aim was to cut down on car thefts. Since then the technology has evolved into a standard feature on all modern automobiles.
The most distinctive characteristic of a sidewinder key is the blade design that is high-security. Unlike the older, regular metal key blanks that were made with notches on their sides, laser cut keys have a winding groove cut up the center of the key blade in a uniform depth. This unique blade design gave the key its name and is a surefire way to differentiate an asymmetrical sidewinder from a conventional metal key.
Apart from the wavy cut that is made on the blade, sidewinder keys possess other features that distinguish them from traditional car keys made of metal. The blanks of the keys have an extremely narrow central area (sometimes called the "web") that supports and reinforces the key.
This web is crucial as it ensures that the key will fit into the lock cylinders on your vehicle. However, if the web is too thick, it could cause the key to either fail when it is inserted or damage the locks by being forced in too hard. This is why it's essential to get an expert locksmith decipher the initial cuts (also called the key code) on your existing key and cut the new key to the correct size.
Wafer Keys
A wafer key is a type of cylindrical lock that makes use of an array of wafers to stop the rotation of a plug. The wafers are protruded from upright slots within the lock's housing and are fixed to large grooves on the outer surface of the plug. When the correct key is entered, the wafers are retracted back into the plug and stop turning. A wafer lock may be more difficult to identify than pin tumbler locks, however it's still easy to master with patience.
Wafer locks are very popular for many reasons. They're cheap to make they are reliable and secure operation, and are easy to rekey. These features make them popular for commercial, residential and industrial applications. Wafer locks can be used with a wide range of keying systems. They are a flexible and adaptable security option.
To ensure that keys can't be interchanged, manufacturers usually utilize key codes that contain two increments between each cut. This makes it much easier to create an incorrect key by mistake because each increment only allows for a certain number of combinations. You'll notice that many lock types have a set of cuts that have a specific height. For example the 1 and 2 instead of one or three.
To select a lock that has wafers, you need to place a diamond- or ball-shaped pick into the lock. Then, apply a little pressure to each of the wafers. Once you feel all the wafers are retracted, you can insert a key with the same cuts and turn it.
Then you can start to work on picking the other side of the lock. It's usually the first one you choose, since it's what stops the lock from rotating freely. Additionally, you'll need to find the binding wafer, which is easily identified by smelling each wafer. A binding wafer isn't going to be able to spring up as easily than the others because of its tension.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys for trucks are more recent technology that offers more protection against auto theft. They're expensive however they can provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle that traditional keys cannot provide. They are made with laser cutters instead of the traditional key cutting machine. They have distinctive patterns that make them hard to copy. This makes it much less likely that thieves will be able use your key to steal your vehicle, truck or other valuable items.
In contrast to traditional keys, which have notches that are cut along the edges to an exact depth, laser-cut keys have laser grooves that can only be carved by a laser. Because of this, they are more difficult to copy and aren't able to be duplicated in any corner tool shop that has an electronic key-cutting machine. They have a laser-engraved design on both sides so they can be inserted from either side of a lock, and still function.
In the 1990s the development of laser-cut keys began to increase security on high-end automobiles and vehicles. Besides the fact that they are hard to duplicate, they also include a transponder inside them. This chip can communicate to the receiver of the vehicle in order to unlock and start the vehicle. If the wrong chip is nearby, the vehicle will not start in the event that the wrong key is present.
Aside from the additional security that laser-cut keys provide, they are also easier to use than traditional keys. They can be opened with only one hand as they are designed to fit into the lock on both sides. Traditional keys require both hands to insert, which is not ideal for those with hectic schedules and lots of things to attend to.
While the increased security of keys made with lasers come at a higher price tag, it is worth it in the long in the long. It is expensive to replace your entire truck in the event that you lose one of the keys you own, so having this extra security is a wise investment. A professional locksmith can assist you to determine the best key for your vehicle and get it programmed so that it works with the specific vehicle you have.