Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past misplacing or even losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.
As cars have adapted to adapt to technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that affect the total cost of car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they usually think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars will help people determine what to expect when replacing or repair keys.
car key remote repair near me of the most basic types of car keys is a standard key that has been in use for decades and is still the most common option for newer cars. These are the keys that you can purchase at an hardware store and then connect to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively affordable to duplicate, but can be expensive to replace when they're damaged or lost.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key which has been used since 1995 and is a more secure solution than 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 loss or damage, but they offer greater protection against theft than standard keys.
Another option is the switchblade key which folds up into the form of a key fob when in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly if the shank or handle of the key has been damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. car key remote repair near me are more expensive than standard keys, and may require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or stopped working, you had to visit the local hardware store to purchase an alternative. It's a little more complicated now. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road, and each one has an individual key. Depending on the model it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. These keys were the ones could be replaced at a hardware shop for a few dollars. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the door locks or trunk locks but not for starting the car.
The other kind of key, which is the most common utilized is the transponder keys. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. This system was added to cars in 1995, and can stop the ignition from starting when a lost or stolen key is used.
The first step in fixing this type of key is to determine what is causing the malfunction. In the majority of cases, the cause is due to either an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this problem, the cap of the key and switch need to be carefully removed using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the problem. Lubricating the key switch 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 known as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition piston. If the car's computer isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder, it won't be able to start. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. Apart from having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function correctly.
Connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer, 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 readily available in all locksmith shops, you may pay more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
Another consideration is the model and make of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.
Some people prefer to have an expert do the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures involved, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using scanners, and the extra security that comes with knowing you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They first came to the market in the 1990s and help to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting if the wrong key is used.
This technology does hinder car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The key's unique blade and shape are difficult to duplicate, however a burglar with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock that is easy for a burglar to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock which is more resistant to picking.
The key is also more durable compared to conventional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and can endure wear and tear for a long period before it becomes worn out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's affordable to repair it by a locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however they are more secure. The combination of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder make it difficult to duplicate. They are still at risk of being lost or stolen if you do not take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are convenient. They don't last for long, and they're likely to stop functioning at the moment you aren't expecting it. A malfunctioning device can put you in a tense situation, especially if you're loading your car with groceries or heading to work after an exhausting day. You may have to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost you a considerable amount to get your car back on the road.
The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob can affect the price. It also depends on the manufacturer which is usually more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others need to be programmed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob will not work or is working intermittently, a replacement battery might be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of your key fob, then insert the new battery with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's better to leave it to a professional to avoid accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and simply purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost both your keys and fob it's worth the cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.
