Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past the loss of car keys weren't a big deal. In fact, you could find a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.
However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances and technology, replacing keys that have been lost is becoming more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that affect the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they may 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 can offer enhanced security. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars can help people anticipate what to expect when replacing or repair the keys.
Keys that are standard are the most basic kind of car key. They've been in use for many years, and are still the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are keys that you can buy at the hardware store and attach to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are inexpensive to copy, but can be expensive to replace if they're lost or damaged.
More modern options include the transponder keys, which has been in use since 1995 and offers an extra secure option than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. car key remote repair near me are more expensive to replace in the event of a loss or damage, but they are more secure against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold up into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are more expensive than normal keys, but they can be more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These are more expensive than standard keys, and may require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was visit the local hardware store and get a replacement. Today things are more complicated. There are numerous kinds of cars on the road, and each one has a unique key. Depending on the type that you are replacing, it could cost you more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. These are the ones that you were in a position to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have transponders and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but they are not used to start the car.
The transponder key is a different type, and is the most frequently used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the head of the key that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This feature was added to automobiles in 1995 and can prevent them from being started if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
The first step in fixing this type of key is to identify the cause of the problem. In most cases, the cause is due to a problem with the key cap or the key switch. To correct this, the key cap and the key switch should be carefully removed using an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch is essential because it can help eliminate issues like key chatter. This is a reference to keys that allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an important part of the anti-theft system in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer can't get the right response. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
The problem is that they are more expensive to replace. They are not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include a microchip that needs to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to function.
This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the computer in your car and entering a programming mode. This procedure can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and, because these devices aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another factor is the model and make of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which will increase your cost.
Some people prefer to have a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device and also the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. Based on the make and model you might be saving money by going directly to the dealer for the installation of the new chip.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a form of car key with an extremely secure blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from starting when the wrong keys are used.
This technology can hinder car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The key's unique blade and shape are difficult to duplicate, however a burglar with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to get into your car. This is because traditional key come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more resistant to picking.
The key is also more durable to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and can withstand lots of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively inexpensive to replace it by a seasoned locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer more security. 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 stolen or lost in the event that you fail to take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are useful. They don't last forever and often stop working when you least expect them. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're packing your trunk full of groceries or leaving for work after an exhausting day. You might need to contact a locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
There are many factors that affect the price of a fob, including the type of key it contains and its materials. Brands are also a factor as they can be more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer 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 could fix the issue. These coin-shaped battery 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 your key fob and then insert the new battery with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. While there are ways to do this yourself however, it's best to have an expert handle it in order to avoid any damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying new keys and fobs even if you already have. However, if you've lost both keys and fob it's worth the expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.
