Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago the loss of car keys wasn't a big deal. In fact, you could probably purchase a spare from an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.
As cars have adapted to keep up with technological advancements, replacing lost keys is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the variables that influence the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When we think of our car keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. While these are the most popular types of car keys, there are many other kinds that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard one, that has been used for decades and is still the most common option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can buy at a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied at the cost of a small amount, but they are expensive to replace when lost or damaged.
More modern options include the transponder keys, which has been used since 1995 and is a more secure solution than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but provide greater security against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into a keyfob when not being used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be even more costly if the shank or handle of the key is damaged.
Lastly, there are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. They cost more than standard keys and may require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was head to your local hardware store to find an alternative. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are a variety of vehicles in use and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on the type 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 simplest kind. They are the keys that you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not have an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or doors, but they are not used to start the car.
The other type of key, which is the most common one, is the transponder key. It has a transponder inside the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to verify that the key is legitimate. This system was installed in vehicles as early as 1995. remote car key repairs protects them from being started with an unauthorised key or lost one.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to identify the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases it is due to either an issue with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this issue problem, the cap of the key and the key switch should be carefully removed using tools, then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is important as it will help to eliminate issues like key chatter. This is the case with keys which can register multiple inputs when they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The small microchip embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder that controls the ignition. The car won't start if the computer does not get the correct response. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made from 1998 onwards.
The issue is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. Apart from having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they have a specific microchip that must be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function effectively.
This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and then entering the programming mode. This process can be more complicated than cutting a blank because these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you could be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
Another factor is the model and make of your car. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that needs to be used to program their vehicles, which could increase the cost.
Some prefer to have a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures involved, which include cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using scanners, and the extra assurance that comes from knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealer to have your new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with high-security blade. They were first introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started if the wrong keys are used.
This technology can hinder car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable compared to conventional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel which can endure wear and wear for a long time before it wears out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, lock cylinder and the transponder make it more difficult to duplicate. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions to keep them safe.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable even though they're practical. They don't hold a charge forever, and they tend to shut down at the moment you least expect to notice. You could find yourself in a embarrassing situation if your device fails particularly when you are taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a tiring day. You may need to call for locksmith services or a tow truck, and it may cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key and the materials used in the fob may affect the price. Brands are also an important factor in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.
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 may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently tear the two halves of the key fob apart and insert the new battery with the same orientation as the previous one.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's best to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. However, if you've lost both fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.