Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or worse, losing your car keys was not a big issue. In fact, you could find a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
However, as remote car key repairs have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys has become more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the factors that influence the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys will help people understand what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key which has been around for decades and is still the most popular choice for newer cars. These are keys that you can buy at the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Standard keys can be copied at an affordable price however, they can be expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, which has been used since 1995 and is security over traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in 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 damage or loss, but they offer greater protection against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into a keyfob when not being used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but could be more expensive when the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. They cost more than standard keys, and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key broke or stopped working, you only had to visit the local hardware store to purchase an alternative. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. There are a variety of vehicles in use and each one has its own key. Depending on the type the key is replaced, it could cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest type. These keys were the ones could be replaced at a hardware store for a few pennies. They do not come with a transponder and are used to secure the trunk or the doors, but they are not used to start the car.
The other type of key, which is the most commonly used one, is the transponder key. It has a transponder in the key head that transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify that the key is legitimate. This system was added to cars in 1995 and prevents them from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used.
The first step in fixing this type of key is to pinpoint what is causing the malfunction. In the majority of cases it is due to an issue with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix the issue, the key cap or switch will need to be removed carefully using an instrument. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating how to repair car key fob is crucial since it can remove issues such as key chatter. This refers to keys that register multiple inputs when they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder of ignition. If the car's computer isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder, it won't be able to start. The majority of cars manufactured from 1998 include this type of chip.
The issue is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have a microchip that needs to be programmed into the car'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 do this. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a new blank, and because the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop, you're likely to spend more than if you replace the basic mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is another aspect. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.
Some people prefer that an expert program their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a form of car key with high-security blade. They came on the scene in the 1990s, and are used to stop vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted to stop the vehicle from starting in the event that keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are difficult to duplicate, but a burglar can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your vehicle. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that's easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have the sidewinder cylinder lock, which is more difficult to pick.
The key's design is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel and can withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's fairly inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they provide increased security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock make it difficult to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being stolen or lost if you do not take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable, even though they are practical. They don't last for a long time, and they are likely to stop functioning when you least expect it. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a tense situation, particularly if you're putting in your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after an extended day. It's possible to contact a locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost you a lot of money to get your car 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. Brands are also an important factor in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob is unresponsive or is not working If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery 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 pry the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery in the same way as the previous one.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's better to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing a new key and fob even if you already have. However, if you've lost both keys and fob it's worth the expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.