Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

Not so long ago misplacing or even losing your car keys weren't an issue. In fact, you could probably purchase a spare from an auto parts store or your local locksmith.

Since cars have been upgraded to accommodate technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more difficult and expensive. Find out more about the factors that affect the total cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they may think of a simple metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most commonly used types of car keys, there are many other kinds that are more sophisticated and have enhanced security features. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car remote key fob repair keys will help people determine what to expect when replacing or repair car key keys.

One of the most basic types of car keys is a standard key, that has been in use for decades and is still the most commonly used option for newer cars. These are the keys that you can purchase at a hardware shop and connect to your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly affordable to duplicate, but could be costly to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.

Transponder keys are a new alternative that has been in use since 1995. They provide security and are more secure than traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key, and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a damage or loss, but they offer greater protection against theft than traditional keys.

Switchblade keys are another option. They fold into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are more expensive than normal keys to replace, but they may cost more when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.

There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if your car key broke or stopped working, you had to visit the local hardware store to get an alternative. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are many kinds of vehicles in use and each has a different key. Depending on its type 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 were the keys that could be replaced at a hardware shop for a few dollars. They don't have transponders and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.

The other kind of key, which is the most popular one is the transponder keys. It has a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal the ignition system in your car to verify that the key is in fact valid. This system was added to automobiles in 1995 and prevents them from starting when a lost or stolen key is used.

The first step to fix this type of key is to pinpoint what's causing the issue. In most cases the issue is with the key cap or key switch is the culprit. To correct this the key cap and key switch must be removed carefully using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is crucial since it can eliminate issues like key chatter. This refers to keys that allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are a vital component of the anti-theft system in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition key cylinder. The Car Key Repair Cost (3.13.251.167) won't start if the computer can't receive the correct response. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made from 1998 onwards.

The issue 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 car's computer for them to work.

Connecting a diagnostic tool with your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is how you accomplish this. This process is more complex than cutting a blank, because these devices aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.

Another consideration is the model and make of the car you are driving. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles, 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 as well as using a scanner device, and the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car key fob repairs near me. You could save money if you go directly to the dealership to get the new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a form of car key with an extremely secure blade. They were first introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional key designs and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used.

While this technology can deter car thieves but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, but anyone with the proper tools and equipment can still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and can withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder, and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the appropriate precautions.

Key Fobs

Although they're useful but key fobs can be difficult to use. They don't last forever and are likely to cease working when you most likely don't. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in a difficult situation, particularly if you're loading your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after an exhausting day. You may have to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.

Many factors influence the cost of a fob. These include the kind of key it comes with and the materials used. It also depends on the brand which is usually more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others require to be reprogrammed by a dealer.

If your key fob does not work or is working intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $10 or less and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently break off the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one in the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. While there are ways to do this yourself but it's better to let professionals handle the task to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying new keys and fobs if you already have one. If, however, you've lost both fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.