Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys was not a big deal. You could buy keys at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
Since cars have been upgraded to keep up with technological advancements replacement of keys that have been lost is more difficult and expensive. Read on to 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 usually think of a simple metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can offer enhanced security. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people understand what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard key, which has been around for decades and is still the most commonly used option for newer cars. These are the keys that you can buy at a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace when they're damaged or lost.
Transponder keys are an innovative alternative that has been in use since 1995. They are a more secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if lost or damaged, but offer better protection against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They cost more than regular keys to replace, but they are more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
There are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These are more expensive than standard keys and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key was damaged or stopped working, you had to visit the local hardware store to purchase new keys. It's a little more complicated today. There are many different types of vehicles on the road and each has an individual key. Depending on its type it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. They are the keys that you used to be able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or doors, but not to start the car.
The transponder key is a different type that is commonly used. The key is equipped with a transponder inside the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify that the key is valid. This system was installed in cars starting in 1995. It prevents them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.
The first step to fix this kind of key is to determine the cause of the problem. In the majority of cases it is due to an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this issue, the key cap or switch must be removed carefully using a tool. car key repairs will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your car. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder that controls the ignition. The car will not start if the computer does not 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 are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to function.
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 simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you could have to pay more than if were to replace a mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is an additional important factor. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars and increase the cost.
Some people prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, including cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing scanners and the security that comes with knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys have a blade with a high degree of security. They were introduced in 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are harder to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from being started in the event that keys that are not the correct ones are used.
This technology can prevent car thefts, however it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, however thieves with the right tools and equipment can still use it to get into your car. This is because traditional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock that is more resistant to picking.
The key's design is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can stand up to wear and tear for a long time before it wears out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by a seasoned locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary security measures to ensure their safety.
Key Fobs
While they're handy but key fobs can be difficult to use. They don't last for a long time, and they are likely to stop functioning when you aren't expecting it. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in a tense situation, especially if you're packing your car with groceries or leaving for work after an extended day. You might need to contact an locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob. These include the type of key it is made of and its materials. Brands also play a role, as they tend to be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user while others require to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.
If your key fob does not function or functions infrequently, a new battery could be the answer. These batteries are typically $10 or less and are available at hardware stores, big box retailers, and online. To replace the battery, gently pry 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 correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's better to leave it to an expert to avoid accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you could skip this step and simply buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost both your fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.