Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't too long ago that losing or, even worse losing your car keys was not a big issue. You could buy a spare key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
As cars have adapted to adapt to technological advances, replacing lost keys is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that influence the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they usually think of a simple metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated kinds of keys for cars that can offer enhanced security. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will allow people know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard key which has been around for decades and is still the most common option for the latest cars. These are the keys you can buy at the hardware store 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.
More modern options include the transponder keys, which has been in use since 1995 and provides an extra secure option than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key, and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of loss or damage, however they are more secure against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They cost more than normal keys, but they can be more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
There are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store to get an alternative. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. There are several types of cars in circulation 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 called "insert-and-turn" keys. These were the keys that you could replace at the hardware store for a few dollars. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used for locking the door or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder key is the other type, and is the most frequently used. This key has a transponder in the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to confirm that the key is in fact valid. This system was introduced in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It prevents the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. In the majority of cases, a problem with either the key cap or key switch is the culprit. To fix this, the key cap and switch need to be removed with a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because it will help in removing issues like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an important part of the anti-theft system in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. The car won't start if the computer doesn't get the right response. remote car key repair near me built since 1998 have this type of chip.
The problem is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain a microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to function.
This process is done by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to your car's computer and entering a programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than with the replacement of a standard mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is a different aspect. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars, which increases your cost.
Some people prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device, as well as the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that has a high-security blade. They were introduced in the 1990s, and are used to prevent vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional key designs and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started in the event that the wrong keys are used.
While this technology works to protect against car thieves but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, however anyone with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to gain entry into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and is able to endure wear and tear for a long period before it begins to wear out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's fairly inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful keys can be finicky. They can't keep a charge forever, and they tend to stop functioning when you least expect it. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a tense situation, particularly if you're packing your car with groceries or leaving for work after an exhausting day. You may need to contact locksmith services or a tow truck, and it can cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
A variety of factors affect the price of a fob. These include the type of key it is made of and the materials used. Brands are also a factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others require to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob will not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery might be the solution. These coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pull the two halves of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the old one.
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 you can find ways to do this on your own but it's better to let a professional handle it to avoid any damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and simply purchase a new one to save money. If, however, you've lost both keys and fob it's worth the cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.