Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past misplacing or even losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could buy a spare key at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
However, as cars have adapted to technological advancement, replacing lost keys has become more complicated and costly. Find out more about what factors into the total cost of car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they often think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
Standard keys are the simplest type of car keys. They've been around for many years, and remain the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can buy at a hardware store and hook to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for the cost of a small amount, but they are expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.
Transponder keys are a modern option that has been available since 1995. They provide an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. key repair car are incorporated into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but they offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.
Another option is the switchblade key that folds down into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They're more expensive than standard keys, but they may cost more in the event that the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. They cost more than standard keys and could require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store to find a replacement. The process is a bit more complicated in the present. There are a variety of vehicles in use and each one has its own key. Based on the model the key is replaced, it could cost you more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys, are the most basic type. They were the keys you could buy from the hardware store for a few dollars. They do not come with transponders and are used to lock the trunk or doors, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most common utilized is the transponder keys. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the head of the key which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was introduced to automobiles in 1995 and prevents them from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
To fix this kind of key the first step is to determine what's causing the malfunction. Most of the time the issue is with the key cap or key switch is the cause. To resolve this issue, the cap or the key switch will need to be removed with care using the appropriate tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is crucial because it can help 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 referred as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer doesn't receive the correct response. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
The issue is that the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. In addition to having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they contain a special microchip that has to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to work properly.
Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is how you accomplish this. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand blank from scratch, and since these devices are not readily accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than if you replace a basic mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is a different important factor. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.
Some people prefer to have professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using scanners, and the extra assurance that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You could save money if you go directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys come with a blade with a high degree of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s, and are used 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 in the event that the incorrect key is used.
This technology helps deter car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are difficult to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the right tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock that is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more resistant to picking.
The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and can endure wear and tear for a long time before it begins to wear out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they provide increased security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost in the event that you fail to take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable even though they're useful. They don't last forever and often stop working at the moment you most likely don't. A malfunctioning device can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're loading your car with food items or heading off to work after an exhausting day. You may have to call a locksmith or a tow truck and it could cost you a significant amount to get your car back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob may influence the cost. Brands also play a role, as they tend to be more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob doesn't respond or is not working A simple battery replacement could fix the issue. These batteries are typically less than $10 and are available at hardware stores, big box retailers, and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts 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 doesn't function correctly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. While you can find ways to do this on your own, it's best to have professionals handle the task 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 simply buy a replacement to save money. 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.