Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing or, even worse losing your car keys wasn't an issue. In fact, you could 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 becoming more difficult and costly. Learn more about the factors that influence the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they might think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated kinds of keys for cars that offer greater security. Knowing the distinctions between different kinds of car keys can help people know what to anticipate when replacing or fixing the keys.

One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key, that has been used for decades and remains the most common option for newer cars. These are the keys you can purchase from a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied for the cost of a small amount, but they are expensive to replace when lost or damaged.

Transponder keys are an innovative option that has been around since 1995. They are an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if lost or damaged, but offer greater protection from theft than conventional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade which folds up into a key fob when not in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they could be more expensive in the event that the handle or shank of the key is damaged.

There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. These are more expensive than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair car key fob.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to the local hardware store and find an alternative. Today things are more complicated. There are several types of cars in circulation and each one has its own key. Based on the model that you are replacing, it could cost more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. These keys were the ones you could replace at the hardware store for a few pennies. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used to lock the door or trunk locks, but not to start the car.

The transponder keys are the other type, and is the most frequently used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was introduced to automobiles in 1995 and can prevent them from starting when a lost or stolen key is used.

To fix this type of key the first step is to figure out the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases it is due to either an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To correct this the key cap and key switch must be removed carefully using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as this can help to eliminate problems like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your vehicle. The microchip inside the head of the car key transmits the signal where to repair car key remote the antenna ring around the ignition piston. The car will not start if the computer doesn't get the correct response. This type of chip is found in most cars manufactured since 1998.

The problem is, the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain an electronic chip that must be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to function.

Connecting a diagnostic tool with the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is how you do this. It is more complicated than simply cutting a brand Remote Key Fob Repair Near Me new blank, and due to the fact that these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop, you're likely to be charged more than when replacing a standard mechanical key.

Another factor is the make and model of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.

Some prefer to have professional programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using a scanning device and the assurance that comes with knowing that you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. Depending on the make and model you may be saving money by visiting the dealer to install your new chip.

Keys Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys feature an edge that is high degree of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key repair is used.

While this technology helps protect against car thieves but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The key's unique blade and shape is difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional Key repair shops near me come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, come with an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively cheap to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.

While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer increased security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it difficult to duplicate. They are still at risk of being stolen or lost in the event that you fail to make the proper precautions.

Key Fobs

While they're handy keys can be tricky. They don't hold a charge for long, and they're likely to shut down when you least expect to notice. You may find yourself in a embarrassing situation if your device fails, especially if you are taking your trunk full of groceries or going to work after a long and exhausting day. You may need to call for an locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost a lot to get your car back on the road.

The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob could affect the cost. It also depends on the brand that is more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.

If your key fob key repair does not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob and then insert the new one in the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's best to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing an additional key and fob if you already have one. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the same time.