Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past, misplacing-or worse, 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 automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances and technology, replacing keys that have been lost has become more complicated and costly. Read on to learn more about what factors into the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they often think of a simple metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. While these are the most commonly used types of car keys however, there are other kinds that are more sophisticated and have enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car keys can help people know what to anticipate when replacing or repairing them.
One of the most basic types of car keys is a standard one, which has been around for decades and is still the most commonly used option for the latest cars. These are keys that you can purchase from an establishment that sells hardware and connect to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for a relatively low cost, but they are expensive to replace when lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder key, that has been used since 1995 and provides a more secure solution than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a damage or loss, but they provide greater protection against theft than traditional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade, which folds into a key fob when not in use. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be even more costly when the handle or shank of the key is damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. They cost more than standard keys, and may require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past the past, if your car's key broke or stopped working, you had to go to the local hardware store to get new keys. The process is a bit more complicated now. There are a variety of cars in circulation and each one has its own key. Based on the type of car it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest kind. They are the keys that you were able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the trunk or door locks, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most common utilized, is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the validity of the key. This feature was added to vehicles in 1995 and can prevent them from starting when a lost or stolen key is used.
The first step to fix this kind of key is to identify the cause of the problem. In most cases the issue is with the key cap or key switch is the reason. To fix this issue the key cap and the key switch should be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as it can help eliminate issues like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys", are an integral component 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 that surrounds the ignition cylinder. If the computer of the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't begin to turn on. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made from 1998 onwards.
The problem is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to function.
This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the car's computer and entering a programming mode. It is more complicated than simply cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop you'll spend more than when replacing the basic mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is an additional aspect. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles which can increase the cost.
Some prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing scanning devices, and the extra peace of mind that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealership to get the new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a type of car key that has a high-security blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are more difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting if the wrong keys are used.
While this technology works to deter car thieves but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and design of the key are difficult to copy, but burglars can still use it with the right tools to gain access to your car. This is because conventional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock which is more resistant to picking.
The key's design is also more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel that can withstand lots of wear and tear before wearing out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by an experienced locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock makes it harder to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost in the event that you fail to make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable, even though they are convenient. They won't last forever and tend to stop functioning when you most likely don't. You could find yourself in a compromising situation if your device fails in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a exhausting day. You may have to call a locksmith or tow truck, and it may cost you a significant amount to get your car back on the road.
A variety of factors affect the price of a fob. These include the type of key it contains and its materials. Brands are also a factor as they can be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others need to be reprogrammed by a dealer.
If your key fob isn't responding or intermittently works A simple battery replacement might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries 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 then insert the new one with the same orientation that the old one had.
If remote key fob repair near me is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll have to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's best to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and simply buy a replacement to save money. However, if you've lost both your keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.