Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys weren't an issue. In fact, you could probably buy a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.
As cars have adapted to accommodate technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that impact the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they could think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most common kinds of keys for cars however, there are other types that are more advanced and have enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars will help people determine what to anticipate when replacing or repairing them.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key, that has been in use for a long time and is the most commonly used option for the latest cars. These are keys that you can buy at the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied for an affordable price, but they are expensive to replace when lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are an innovative option that has been available since 1995. They are security and are more secure than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a damage or loss, but they offer greater protection against theft than standard keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into a keyfob when not being used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key is damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store to get a replacement. Things are a bit more complicated in the present. There are a variety of vehicles on the road and each comes with distinct keys. Depending on its type, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys, are the most basic type. These were the keys that you could buy from the hardware shop for a few dollars. They do not have an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.
The other kind of key, which is the most common in use is the transponder keys. It has a tiny transponder in the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was put in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to determine what is causing it to malfunction. In the majority of cases it is a problem with the key cap or key switch is the culprit. To fix this the key cap and switch need to be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is important since it can solve issues such as key chatter. This is a reference to keys which allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft system. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. The car won't start if the computer does not receive the correct response. This kind of chip can be used in all cars built since 1998.
The issue is that they're more expensive to replace. Apart from having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into your car's computer to work correctly.
This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to your car's computer and entering a programming mode. This process is more complex than cutting a blank, because these devices aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another aspect is the make and model of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which could increase the cost.
Some prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder key. This is due to complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device, as well as the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your vehicle. You may be able save money by going directly to the dealership to get the new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that has high-security blade. They were first introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting in the event that the incorrect key is used.
While this technology helps deter car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them completely. key repair car 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 conventional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The design of the key is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they provide more security. remote car key repairs of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you don't take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
While they're handy keys can be finicky. They can't keep a charge for long, and they're likely to stop functioning when you least expect it. You may find yourself in a compromising situation if your device fails particularly when you are taking your trunk full of groceries or going to work after a tiring day. You may need to contact locksmith services or a tow truck and it could cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob could affect the price. It also depends on the brand that is more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob is unresponsive or doesn't work at all, a simple battery replacement could fix the issue. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost less than $10 and are available at hardware stores, big box retailers, and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently tear the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one in the same way that the old one had.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. Although you may be able to do this yourself however, it's best to let a professional handle it to prevent any accidental damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can skip this step and simply purchase a replacement to save money. 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 at the same time.
