Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing or worse losing keys to your car was not an problem. You could purchase a spare key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
As cars have evolved to adapt to technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car keys that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car keys will help people determine what to anticipate when replacing or repairing keys.
Standard keys are the most basic type of car key. They've been in use for decades, and they remain the most sought-after choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys you can purchase at an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for a relatively low cost, but they are expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.
Transponder keys are a new option that has been around since 1995. They offer an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if they are lost or damaged, but provide greater security against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold up into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They cost more than normal keys, however they are more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or was not working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to get an alternative. Things are a bit more complicated in the present. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road and each has a unique key. Depending on its type it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. These were the keys that could be replaced at a hardware shop for a few cents. They do not have a transponder in them and are used for locking the door locks or trunk locks, but not to start the car.
The transponder key is a different type, and is the most commonly used. This key has a small transponder located in the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the authenticity of the key. The system was introduced to vehicles in 1995, and can stop the ignition from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases, the cause is due to either an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To correct this, the key cap and key switch must be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the issue. Lubricating the switch is important because it can help remove issues such as key chatter. This is a reference to keys that allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition piston. If the computer of the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.
The problem is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They're not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have microchips that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to function.
Connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. This procedure can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another consideration is the model and make of your car. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that must be used in order to program their vehicles, which can add cost.
Some people prefer that a professional program their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using scanning devices and the assurance that comes from knowing you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealership to get the new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They came on the scene in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate, and they have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted to stop the vehicle from starting in the event that keys that aren't the right ones are used.
This technology helps prevent car thefts, however it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key is difficult to copy, but a burglar can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys 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's design is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and can endure wear and tear for a long period before it begins to wear out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer increased security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the necessary steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable, even though they are practical. They won't last forever and are likely to cease working when you most likely don't. You could end up in an embarrassing situation if your device fails in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. You may have to call a locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
There are many factors that affect the price of a fob. These include the type of key it is made of and its materials. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob isn't responding or is not working A simple battery replacement might fix the issue. These batteries are typically $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores or big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob, then insert the new one with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. car keys repairs near me can do it yourself, but it's best to leave it to an expert to avoid accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing a new key and fob in the event that you already have one. However, if you've lost both your keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.