Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys weren't an issue. You could buy a spare key at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
Since cars have been upgraded to keep up with technological advancements replacement of keys that have been lost is becoming more difficult and costly. Learn more about what factors into the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While those are the most popular types of car keys but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car keys will help people determine what to expect when replacing or repair them.
Standard keys are the simplest type of car key. They've been around for a long time, and are still the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can purchase at an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are inexpensive to copy, but can be expensive to replace when they're damaged or lost.
Transponder keys are a modern option that has been around since 1995. They are an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the key handle and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They're more expensive than regular keys, however they may cost more when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. These are more expensive than standard keys and could require a locksmith's special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the blue, all you had to do was go to your local hardware store to obtain a replacement. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are many kinds of vehicles in use and each has a different 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 most basic kind. They were the keys you could replace at the hardware shop for a few pennies. They do not come with transponders and are used to secure the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.
The other kind of key, which is the most commonly used in use, is the transponder key. This key has an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to verify that the key is in fact valid. The system was put in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It protects the ignition from being started by an unauthorised key or lost one.
To fix this kind of key the first step is to determine the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases it is due to a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this problem, the cap of the key and key switch must be removed with an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the problem. Lubricating the switch is essential because it can help remove issues such as key chatter. This refers to keys which register multiple inputs when they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft system. The small microchip embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the cylinder that controls the ignition. If the computer in the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't begin to turn on. This kind of chip can be present in the majority of cars made from 1998 onwards.
key repair service is that they're more expensive to replace. In addition to having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a special microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to work correctly.
electronic car key repair near me is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. This process is more complicated than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of your car. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars, which increases your cost.
Some people prefer that professional programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, and the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Depending on the make and model, you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the dealership to arrange to install your new chip.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys have blades that have a high level of security. They came on the scene in the 1990s and work to prevent vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, which stops the vehicle from starting when the wrong key is used.
This technology helps deter car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, however a burglar with the right tools and equipment can still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key's design is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by a professional locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable even though they're practical. They don't last forever and are likely to cease working at the moment you most likely don't. You could find yourself in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions, especially if you are loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. You may need to call for a locksmith or a tow truck and it could cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key and the materials used in the fob can affect the price. It also depends on the manufacturer which is usually more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user, while others need to be reprogrammed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob isn't responding or intermittently works If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery might fix the issue. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of your key fob, then insert the new one in the same orientation.
It's up to your dealer reprogramme it if your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning as it should. You can do this yourself, but it's best to let it be done by an expert 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. However, if you've lost both keys and fob it's worth the cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.