Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. In fact, you could buy a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
However, as automobiles have advanced to meet the demands of technology the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the factors that influence the overall 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. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that offer greater security. Knowing the distinctions between different types of keys for cars can help people anticipate what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing them.
Keys that are standard are the simplest type of car key. They've been around for decades, and they remain the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are keys that you can buy at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Keys of the standard type are cheap to copy, however they could be costly to replace when they're damaged or lost.
More modern options include the transponder key, which has been in use since 1995 and offers security over traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the key handle and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but they offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade key which folds up into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They are more expensive than standard keys, but they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
There are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. They are more expensive than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key was damaged or stopped working, you only needed to visit the local hardware store to get an alternative. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you used to be able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used to lock the trunk or door locks but not for starting the car.
The other type of key, that is the most commonly used in use is the transponder keys. This key has a small transponder inside the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was introduced in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It protects the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or lost one.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. Most of the time the issue is with the cap of the key or the switch is the reason. To fix the problem, the key cap or switch will need to be removed carefully using a tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate problems like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft security system. The microchip inside the plastic head of the key transmits signals to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. If the computer in the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't begin to turn on. Most cars produced since 1998 have this type of chip.
remote car key repairs is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have an electronic chip that must be programmed into the vehicle's computer for them to work.
Connecting a diagnostic tool to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. This process can be more complex than cutting a blank because these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is another important factor. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used in order to program their vehicles, which could add cost.
Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna, and using scanning devices as well as the assurance that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealer to have your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have an edge that is high degree of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting in the event that the incorrect key is used.
While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key are difficult to duplicate, however a burglar can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.
The key's design is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel which can stand up to wear and wear for a long time before it becomes worn out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still at risk of being stolen or lost if you do not take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
While they're handy keys can be difficult to use. They aren't always reliable and tend to stop functioning when you least expect them. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a difficult situation, particularly if you're loading your trunk full of groceries or leaving for work after an extended day. You might need to call a locksmith or a tow truck and it could cost you a considerable amount to get your vehicle back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob. These include the type of key it contains and its materials. It is also dependent on the brand which is usually more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user while others must be programmed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob doesn't respond or is not working, a simple battery replacement might fix the issue. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores, big box retailers, and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob and insert the new one with 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 this yourself, but it's better to leave it to a professional to avoid accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and purchase a replacement to save money. If you've lost both your fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.