Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys weren't an issue. You could buy a spare key at the local auto parts store or locksmith.
As cars have adapted to keep up with technological advancements, replacing lost keys is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the factors that influence the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they usually think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys can help people to know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key, that has been used for decades and remains the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys that you can purchase from a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for an affordable price however they can be costly to replace when lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are an innovative alternative that has been in use since 1995. They are security and are more secure than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become lost or damaged, but offer greater protection from theft than conventional keys.
Another option is the switchblade key which folds up into a key fob when not in use. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
There are also car key repairs near me with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past the past, if your car's key broke or stopped working, you only had to visit the local hardware store to get an alternative. Today, things are a little more complicated. There are numerous kinds of cars on the road and each has distinct keys. Depending on the type, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic kind. These were the keys that you could replace at the hardware store for a few pennies. They do not have a transponder in them and are intended for locking the trunk or door locks but not for starting the car.
The transponder key is a different type one, and is the most commonly used. It has a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal the ignition system in your car to verify that the key is legitimate. This feature was added to automobiles in 1995 and can prevent the ignition from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
The first step to fix this type of key is to pinpoint the cause of the problem. Most of the time the issue is with the cap on the key or switch is the cause. To fix this problem, the cap of the key and the key switch should be removed with a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch is important because it can help solve issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys that can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft security system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits signals to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. The car won't start if the computer can't get the right response. This kind of chip can be present in the majority of cars made from 1998 onwards.
Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have microchips that need to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to function.
This process is done by connecting a diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and entering a programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand blank from scratch, and since these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop, you're likely to be charged more than if you replace the basic mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which can add cost.
Some prefer having an expert program their transponder keys. This is due to complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device, and also the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your vehicle. Based on the make and model you might be able to save money by going directly to the dealership to arrange to install the new chip.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys come with blades that have a high level of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used.
This technology helps prevent car thefts, however it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key is difficult to duplicate, but burglars can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock that is more resistant to picking.
The design of the key is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and can endure wear and wear for a long time before it wears out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you do not take the necessary steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are useful. They don't hold a charge for long, and they're likely to stop functioning at the moment you most likely won't notice to notice. You may find yourself in a embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a tiring day. You might need to contact locksmith services or a tow truck and it may cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
A variety of factors affect the price of a fob, including the type of key it is made of and the materials it is made of. Brands are also an important factor as they can be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user, while others must be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.
If your key fob is unresponsive or intermittently works, a simple battery replacement might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores or big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one with the same orientation as the old one.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's better to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could lead to 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 key and fob together, it's worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a new key at the exact same time.