Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
Not so long ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys wasn't an issue. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
Since cars have been upgraded to adapt to technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is becoming more difficult and costly. Learn more about what factors into the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When we think of our car keys, they usually imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. While those are the most popular kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will allow people know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard key that has been in use for decades and remains the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are keys that you can purchase at a hardware shop and connect to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are cheap to copy, however they could be costly to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are an innovative option that has been available since 1995. They offer security and are more secure than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, but they are more secure against theft than standard keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but could be more expensive when the handle or shank of the key is damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was head to your local hardware store to get an alternative. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road, and each one has a unique key. Depending on its type it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest type. They are the keys that you were capable of replacing at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not have transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors but not to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most common one, is the transponder key. This key has a small transponder inside the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was put in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It protects the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or lost one.
The first step to fix this kind of key is to pinpoint what's causing the issue. In the majority of cases the issue is with the cap of the key or the switch is the cause. To fix this issue, the cap or the key switch must be removed with a tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an essential part of the anti-theft system in your car. The small microchip embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits a signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. If the car's computer doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. car keys repairs of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
The issue is that they are more expensive to replace. Apart from having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a special microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to function effectively.
This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the car's computer and then entering a programming mode. This process can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you could be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is a different aspect. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.
Some people prefer that a professional program their transponder keys. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using a scanning device, and the extra security that comes from knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You may be able save money by going directly to the dealer to have your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have blades that have a high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting if the wrong key is used.
While this technology works to protect against car thieves but it's not able to stop them entirely. The key's unique blade and shape is difficult to duplicate, but anyone with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock which is more resistant to picking.
The key's design is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is relatively inexpensive to repair it by a locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder, and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the proper precautions to keep them safe.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable even though they're practical. They can't keep a charge forever, and they tend to cease functioning when you aren't expecting it. You may find yourself in a embarrassing situation if your device fails in the middle of carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. It's possible to call for an locksmith or a tow truck and it can cost a lot to get your car back on the road.
The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob may affect the cost. Brands also play a role as they can be more expensive. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob isn't responding or doesn't work at all, a simple battery replacement might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $10 or less and are available at hardware stores, big box retailers, and even online. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of your key fob and then insert the new battery with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. While there are ways to do this on your own however, it's best to have professionals handle the task to avoid any damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and simply buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the exact same time.