Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing or worse, losing your car keys wasn't a big issue. In fact, you could probably purchase a spare from an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
However, as vehicles have advanced to meet the demands of technology and technology, replacing keys that have been lost is becoming more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the factors that influence the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they could think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While those are the most common types of car keys, there are many other types that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the differences between different types of keys for cars will help people determine what to expect when replacing or repairing keys.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key, that has been used for decades and is still the most common option for the latest cars. These are the keys you can buy at a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied for the cost of a small amount, but they are expensive to replace when 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 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 are more secure against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They're more expensive than normal keys, but they are more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
Lastly, there are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. They cost more than standard keys and could require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or stopped working, you only had to go to the local hardware store to purchase an alternative. The process is a bit more complicated today. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each has a different key. Depending on car keys repair can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. These were the keys that you could replace at the hardware shop for a few cents. They don't have an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.
The transponder keys are the other type that is frequently used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your car to verify the validity of the key. The system was introduced to vehicles in 1995 and prevents them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases the issue is with the cap of the key or the switch is the reason. To fix the issue, the cap or switch must be removed with a tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is essential as it can help eliminate issues like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
car keys repair , also referred to as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits a signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. If the car's computer does not receive the correct response from the transponder it won't start. Most cars produced in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The issue is that they are more expensive to replace. They're not just different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include an electronic chip that must be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to function.
Connecting a diagnostic tool with the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. This process can be more complicated than cutting a blank because these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you might have to pay more than if were to replace a mechanical key.
Another aspect is the make and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which can increase your cost.
Some people prefer to have a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures involved, which include cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna, and using a scanning device as well as the assurance that comes with knowing that you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. Based on the make and model, you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the car dealership for the installation of your new chip.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have blades that have a high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting when the wrong key is used.
While this technology helps protect against car thieves, it doesn't prevent them from doing so completely. The key's unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and can withstand wear and tear for a long period before it wears out. If the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they offer more security. The combination of the blade, lock cylinder and the transponder make it difficult to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost if you do not take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful keys can be tricky. They won't last forever and are likely to cease functioning when you most likely don't. You may find yourself in a compromising situation if your device fails particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a exhausting day. It's possible to call for an locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost a lot to get your car back on the road.
The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob may influence the cost. Brands also play a role, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others need to be programmed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob isn't responding or is not working A simple battery replacement could fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores, big box retailers, and online. To replace the battery, gently break apart the two halves of your key fob, then insert the new battery 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. While there are ways to do this on your own however, it's best to have an expert handle it in order to avoid any damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can skip this step and buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth the cost to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a new key at the same time.