Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing or, even worse losing your car keys wasn't a big issue. You could buy an extra key at the local auto parts store or locksmith.
However, as vehicles have advanced to meet the demands of technology the process of replacing keys has become more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the variables that impact the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might think of a simple metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most popular kinds of keys for cars, there are many other kinds that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. 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 a long time and is the most popular choice for cars with modern technology. These are the keys that you can purchase from an establishment that sells hardware and attach to your keychain. Standard keys can be copied for an affordable price however they can be costly to replace if lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a new option that has been around since 1995. They are a more secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but provide greater security against theft than conventional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade key that folds down into the form of a key fob when in use. They are more expensive than standard keys, however they can be more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
Additionally, there are the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. They are more expensive than standard keys and could require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store and obtain an alternative. It's a little more complicated in the present. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road and each has a unique key. Depending on the model, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest kind. These were the keys that could be replaced at a hardware shop for a few dollars. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used to lock the door locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder key is a different type, and is the most commonly used. The key is equipped with a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify that the key is in fact valid. This system was added to vehicles in 1995, and can stop the ignition from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. Most of the time it is due to a problem with the key cap or the key switch. To fix this issue the key cap and switch need to be carefully removed using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the problem. Lubricating the key switch is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate issues such as key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the key transmits a signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the cylinder that controls the ignition. The car will not start if the computer does not get the correct response. This kind of chip can be used in all cars built since 1998.
The issue is that the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They're 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 car's computer in order to function.
This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to the car's computer and then entering a programming mode. It is more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop you'll be charged more than if you replace a standard mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which could increase the cost.
Some prefer to have professional programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device, and also the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys come with blades that have a high level of security. They came on the scene in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate, and they have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted to stop the vehicle from starting when the wrong keys are used.
This technology does prevent car thefts, however 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 make use of it to gain access into your car. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more resistant to picking.
The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can withstand lots of wear and tear before fading out. If key repair near me or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock make it more difficult to duplicate. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the necessary security measures to ensure their safety.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable, even though they are practical. They can't keep a charge for long, and they're likely to shut down at the moment you least expect it. You could find yourself in an embarrassing situation if your device fails in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or going to work after a long and exhausting day. You may need to call for a locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob may affect the price. It also depends on the manufacturer which is usually 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 doesn't respond or intermittently works A simple battery replacement may be the solution. The coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of your key fob, then insert the new one in the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning 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 an expert to avoid accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying an additional key and fob even if you already have. If you've lost both keys and fob, it's worth the extra expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.
