Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing or worse, losing keys to your car was not an problem. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts store or lock key repair near me at your local locksmith.

However, as vehicles have advanced to meet the demands of technology, replacing lost keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Read on to learn more about what factors into the total cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they could think of a simple metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars however, there are other types that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions 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 Key Repair Cost keys is a standard key that has been used for decades and remains the most common option for newer cars. These are the keys that you can buy at a hardware shop and connect to your keychain. Standard keys can be copied at the cost of a small amount however, they can be expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

Transponder keys are an innovative option that has been around since 1995. They are a more secure alternative to traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key, and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, but they provide greater protection against theft than conventional keys.

Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly when the handle or shank of the key repair is damaged.

Lastly, there are also the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote key fob repair near me starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past the past, if your car's key broke or stopped working, you only needed to visit the local hardware store to get a new one. The process is a bit more complicated now. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the model that you are replacing, it could cost more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. They're the ones you were in a position to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors but they are not used to start the car.

The other kind of key, which is the most popular one is the transponder keys. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This feature was added to vehicles in 1995, and can stop the ignition from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

To fix this kind of key, the first step is to determine the reason for its malfunction. Most of the time it is a problem with the cap on the key or switch is the reason. To fix this issue the key cap and switch need to be removed with a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch is crucial as it will help to remove issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys which register multiple inputs when pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits a signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. If the computer of the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't start. This kind of chip can be used in all cars built since 1998.

The issue is that they're more expensive to replace. They also have distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a special microchip that has to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to work properly.

This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the computer in your car key fob repair and then entering the programming mode. It is more complicated than just cutting a new blank, and because the tools aren't accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than if you replace a basic mechanical key.

Another consideration is the model and make of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that must be used to program their vehicles, which could add cost.

Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device and the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Based on the model and make you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the dealer to install your new chip.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys come with a blade with a high degree of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are harder to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used.

While this technology helps deter car thieves but it's not able to stop them completely. The key's unique blade and design is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that's easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that can withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by a seasoned locksmith.

While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they provide increased security. The combination of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen in the event that you fail to take the appropriate precautions.

Key Fobs

Key fobs may not be reliable, even though they are convenient. They aren't always reliable and often stop working when you least expect them. You may find yourself 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 might need to contact a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.

A variety of factors affect the price of a fob. These include the kind of key it comes with and its materials. It is also dependent on the brand that is more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob doesn't respond or intermittently works, a simple battery replacement may be the solution. These coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one in the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by an expert to avoid accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing new keys and fobs if you already have one. If, however, you've lost both fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.