Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could buy an extra key at the local auto parts store or locksmith.
Since cars have been upgraded to adapt to technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more complicated and costly. Read on to learn more about what factors into the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys will help people to know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
Keys that are standard are the most basic type of car keys. They've been around for many years, and remain the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are the keys you can buy at the hardware store and attach to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are affordable to duplicate, but can be expensive to replace when they're damaged or lost.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key which has been in use since 1995 and provides an extra secure option than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the key handle and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of a loss or damage, however they offer greater protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key is damaged.
There are also the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was go to your local hardware store to obtain a replacement. Nowadays things are more complicated. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each one has its own key. Depending on its type it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. These keys were the ones you could replace at the hardware shop for a few cents. They don't have transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors, but they are not used to start the car.
The transponder keys are the other type that is frequently used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. The system was introduced to vehicles in 1995, and can stop them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to identify the reason for its malfunction. In most cases, a problem with either the key cap or key switch is the cause. To resolve this problem, the key cap or switch must be removed with care using an instrument. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as it will help in removing issues like key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are a vital component of your car's anti-theft system. The small microchip embedded inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. If the car's computer does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. This type of chip is found in most cars manufactured since 1998.
The problem is, the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the car's computer for them to function.
Connecting a diagnostic tool with your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is how you do this. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you could pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used to program their vehicles, which could increase the cost.
Some prefer to have an expert program their transponder keys. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using scanning devices as well as the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that has a high-security blade. They were first introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the wrong key is used.
This technology helps hinder car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The key's unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, however thieves with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional key come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which can withstand lots of wear and tear before wearing out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's relatively inexpensive to replace it by an experienced locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable even though they're useful. They won't last forever and are likely to cease working when you most likely don't. remote key fob repair near me can leave you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're packing your trunk full of groceries or leaving for work after a long day. You may need to call locksmith services or a tow truck, and it could cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
A variety of factors affect the price of a fob, such as the type of key it contains and its materials. It is also dependent on the brand which is usually more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob will not work or is working intermittently, a simple replacement battery might be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pry the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery in the same way that the old one had.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. Although you may be able to do this yourself however, it's best to let an expert handle it in order to prevent any accidental damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying an additional key and fob in the event that you already have one. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the same time.