Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing or, even worse, losing your car keys wasn't a big issue. You could purchase keys at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
As cars have evolved to keep up with technological advancements, replacing lost keys is more difficult and expensive. 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 turns on the engine. While these are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between different kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing them.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard one, which has been around for decades and is still the most common option for the latest cars. These are keys that you can purchase from an establishment that sells hardware and attach to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively cheap to copy, however they can be expensive to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, which has been used since 1995 and is security over traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of damage or loss, but they provide greater protection against theft than traditional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade key which folds up into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be even more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key is damaged.
Lastly, there are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past the past, if your car's key broke or was not working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to get an alternative. Today, things are a little more complicated. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road, and each one has an individual key. Depending on the model, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. They are the keys that you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not come with a transponder and are used to secure the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, which is the most common in use is the transponder key. The key is equipped with an internal transponder within the head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to confirm that the key is valid. This system was installed in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops the ignition from being started by an unauthorised key or a lost one.
The first step in fixing this type of key is to identify the cause of the problem. In most cases the reason is due to an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To resolve this issue, the cap or switch must be removed carefully using the appropriate tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. 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 a vital component of your car's anti-theft system. The microchip inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. If the computer in the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder it won't start. This type of chip is found in most cars manufactured since 1998.
The problem is that they are more expensive to replace. In addition to having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a special microchip that must be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function correctly.
Connecting a diagnostic tool with your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand blank from scratch, and since the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop you'll spend more than when replacing a standard mechanical key.
Another factor is the make and model of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars, which increases your cost.
car key repairs prefer to have professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, which include cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna, and using a scanning device and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. Based on the model and make you might be in a position to save money by visiting the dealership to arrange for the installation of the new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key with high-security blade. They were introduced in 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting when the incorrect key is used.
This technology helps deter car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and design of the key are difficult to copy, but a burglar can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your car. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable in comparison to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by an experienced locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they provide more security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the proper precautions to keep them safe.
Key Fobs
While they're handy, key fobs can be difficult to use. They aren't always reliable and tend to stop working at the moment you least expect them. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a difficult situation, especially if you're packing your trunk with groceries or leaving for work after an exhausting day. You might need to call a locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost a lot of money to get your car back on the road.
There are many factors that affect the price of a fob, including the kind of key it comes with and its materials. Brands are also an important factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others require to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.
If your key fob will not work or works intermittently, a simple replacement battery might be the solution. These batteries are typically $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently break apart the two halves of your key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation.
It is necessary for your dealer to change the program if your key fob is damaged or is not functioning properly. While there are ways to do this yourself, it's best to let an expert handle it in order to avoid any damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing a new key and fob if you already have one. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a new key at the exact same time.