Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or, even worse, losing keys to your car was not an issue. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
As car keys repair have adapted to keep up with technological advancements, replacing lost keys is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that influence the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they could imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While those are the most commonly used types of car keys but there are a variety of kinds that are more sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people understand what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
Keys that are standard are the simplest type of car keys. They have been around for decades, and they are still the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are keys that you can buy at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Keys of the standard type are affordable to duplicate, but could cost a lot to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key which has been in use since 1995 and provides security over traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but they provide greater security against theft than conventional keys.
Another option is the switchblade key, which folds into a key fob when not in use. They are more expensive than regular keys to replace, but they are more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
Additionally, there are the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key was damaged or stopped working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to get new keys. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are a variety of cars on the road and each has an individual key. Depending on its type it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. They're the ones you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but they are not used to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most popular utilized, is the transponder key. This key has a transponder in the key head that sends 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 stops them from being started with an unauthorised key or lost one.
The first step in fixing this kind of key is to determine what is causing the malfunction. In most cases the issue is with the cap on the key or switch is the culprit. To correct this the key cap and the key switch should be removed with tools, then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is important since it can solve issues such as key chatter. This is a reference to keys that register multiple inputs when pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft security system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition key cylinder. The car will not start if the computer doesn't get the right response. Most cars produced from 1998 include this type of chip.
The issue is, the same thing that makes these types 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 vehicle's computer for them to work.
Connecting a diagnostic device to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. This process is more complex than simply cutting a blank and, because these devices aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you might be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which could increase the cost.
Some people prefer to have a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the intricate procedures involved, including cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna, and using scanning devices, and the extra security that comes with knowing that you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys feature blades that have a high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s, and are used to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started if the wrong keys are used.
This technology does prevent car thefts, however it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and design of the key is difficult to copy, but a burglar can still use it with the right tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick.
The key's design is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel which can stand up to wear and tear for a long period before it becomes worn out. If the key breaks or wears out, it is affordable to repair it by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder makes it harder to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost if you don't make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are useful. They can't keep a charge forever, and they tend to cease functioning at the moment you aren't expecting it. You could end up in an embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a tiring day. You might need to call a locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost you a lot of money to get your car back on the road.
Learn Even more of key and the materials used in the fob can affect the price. Brands are also a 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 is unresponsive or intermittently works If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation.
It is necessary for your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning properly. You can do this yourself, but it's better to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and purchase a replacement to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's worth the cost to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a new key at the same at the same time.