Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that losing or, even worse, losing your car keys was not an problem. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
As cars have adapted to keep up with technological advancements, replacing lost keys is more difficult and expensive. Find out more about the elements that impact the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they usually think of a simple metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. While these are the most popular kinds of keys for cars however, there are other kinds that are more sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will help people to know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
Keys that are standard are the simplest type of car keys. They have been around for a long time, and remain the most sought-after choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys you can purchase from an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively affordable to duplicate, but could cost a lot to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been in use since 1995 and is a more secure solution than traditional keys. These have microchips in the key handle and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if lost or damaged, but offer better protection against theft than conventional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade which folds up into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be even more costly if the shank or handle of the key is damaged.
Additionally, there are the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. They are more expensive than standard keys and could require a locksmith's special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when you lost your car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to your local hardware store to find a replacement. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are a variety of cars on the road and each comes with distinct keys. 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 are the ones that you were able to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors but not to start the car.
The transponder key is the other type one, and is the most commonly used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder in the head of the key that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was put in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It prevents them from being started with an unauthorised key or lost one.
The first step to fix this type of key is to identify the cause of the problem. In most cases the issue is with the key cap or key switch is the cause. To resolve this issue, the key cap or switch must be removed with an instrument. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as it can help eliminate issues such as key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your vehicle. The microchip inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. If the car's computer does not receive the correct response from the transponder it won't start. Most cars produced since 1998 have this type of chip.
remote key repairs is, they're more expensive to replace. They're not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include an electronic chip that must be programmed into the car's computer for them to work.
This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the car's computer and entering a programming mode. This process can be more complex than cutting a blank because these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you could pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another factor is the make and model of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.
Some prefer to have an expert program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and utilizing a scanning device, and the extra security that comes with knowing that you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that has high-security blade. They first came to the market in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting when the incorrect key is used.
This technology can hinder car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The key's unique blade and shape is difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the proper tools and equipment can still make use of it to gain access into your car. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, have the sidewinder cylinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable in comparison to conventional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel which can stand up to wear and tear for a long time before it begins to wear out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, remote key repairs are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the necessary steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable, even though they are useful. They don't last forever and are likely to cease functioning when you least expect them. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a tense situation, especially if you're putting in your car with groceries or heading to work after a long day. It's possible to call an locksmith or a tow truck, and it may cost you a lot of money to get your car back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob. These include the type of key it contains and the materials it is made of. Brands are also a factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user while others need to be reprogrammed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob doesn't respond or is not working, a simple battery replacement might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $10 or less and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll have to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying an additional key and fob if you already have one. However, if you've lost both your fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.