Automotive keys play a huge role in vehicle safety. That’s why car manufacturers have spent years designing increasingly sophisticated and secure solutions for automotive keys. One staple in the evolution of vehicle security is the VATS key. Discover how these keys work and learn more about the role they play in automotive security with this guide to the top things you need to know about VATS keys.
VATS Keys Started With the Corvette
Security is a priority for everyone, but it was a particularly serious issue for sports cars. Flashier and more valuable models like the GM-made Corvette were a greater target for thieves. General Motors needed a way to deter thieves and make their cars more secure for customers. This led to the Vehicle Anti-Theft System key—also known as the VATS key.
GM introduced the VATS key with the 1986 Corvette. This more sophisticated key design successfully reduced the number of stolen Corvettes, so they started using the design for other vehicles, including the Camaro, Firebird, and Cadillac Seville. As time went on, the VATS key spread to other manufacturers and eventually became a standard part of new vehicles.
VATS Keys Use Electricity
VATS keys paved the way as the industry’s first electronic keys. They use a resistor that, when you insert it into the ignition, communicates with the car’s computer via electrical current. The car recognizes the resistor value, allowing the engine to start. If the key doesn’t match the vehicle, the engine will stall, holding up potential thieves and deterring them from stealing the vehicle.
This method of having the key communicate and match with the vehicle’s onboard computer led to even more sophisticated designs over the years. This makes the VATS key the ancestor of modern systems like transponder keys.
VATS Keys Are Harder To Copy
Another thing you need to know about VATS keys is that they’re harder to copy than traditional keys. Traditional keys with edge cuts were easy to replicate with a standard key cutting machine, and while side-winder keys improved upon that by requiring specialized key copying equipment, VATS keys take it a step further. In addition to cutting the key blade, you also have to determine the resistance value of the VATS key in order to replicate it. This ensures that the key matches the vehicle’s system and successfully starts the engine.
Stay on Top of Vehicle Security
The world of vehicle security is always evolving. More and more, locksmiths need sophisticated technology to keep up with changing products, services, and demands. Make sure your business has the resources and tools you need by working with Locksmith Keyless. Find modern key duplicating machines and other must-have tools when you shop our automotive locksmith equipment today.
