Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past misplacing or even losing your car keys wasn't an issue. In fact, you could find a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
However, as cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys has become more difficult and costly. Find out more about the elements that influence the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they usually imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. While those are the most popular kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars can help people anticipate what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing keys.
Keys that are standard are the most basic type of car key. They have been around for many years, and remain the most sought-after option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can buy at an hardware store and then connect to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a modern alternative that has been in use since 1995. They offer a more secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if lost or damaged, but offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold into a keyfob when not being used. They're more expensive than regular keys, however they may cost more if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. These are more expensive than standard keys, and may require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store and find a replacement. It's a little more complicated now. There are many kinds of vehicles in use and each one has its own key. Based on the type of car it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. They are the keys that you were capable of replacing at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not come with 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 frequently used. It has a transponder inside the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to confirm that the key is in fact valid. The system was introduced to cars in 1995 and prevents the ignition from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used.
To fix this type of key the first step is to identify the reason for its malfunction. Most of the time, a problem with either the key cap or key switch is the reason. To fix the issue, the cap or switch must be removed with a tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating remote key repair is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate problems like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The microchip inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. The car won't start if the computer doesn't get the correct response. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.
The problem is that they are more expensive to replace. In addition to having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that must be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function properly.
Connecting a diagnostic device to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is how you accomplish this. This procedure can be more complex than cutting a blank because these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could have to pay more than if were to replace a mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is a different important factor. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars and increase the cost.
Some people prefer that an expert program their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device as well as the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car. You may be able save money by going directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a form of car key that has high-security blade. They first came to the market in the 1990s and help to combat vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted to stop the vehicle from being started if the wrong keys are used.
This technology helps deter car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock that is more resistant to picking.
The key is also more durable to traditional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel which can stand up to wear and wear for a long time before it begins to wear out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's affordable to have it repaired by a locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer more security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock make it difficult to duplicate. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions to keep them safe.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable, even though they are convenient. They won't last forever and often stop working at the moment you most likely don't. A malfunctioning device can put you in a difficult situation, particularly if you're loading your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long day. You might need to call for a locksmith 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, such as the type of key it contains and the materials it is made of. Brands are also a factor as they can be more expensive. 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. The coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently tear the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery in the same way as the old one.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's best to let it be done by an expert to avoid accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can bypass this step and purchase a new one to save money. 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.