Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or, even worse, losing your car keys was not a big issue. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto key fob repair parts shop or even your local locksmith.
However, as cars 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 could think of a simple metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars, there are many other kinds that are more sophisticated and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will help people understand what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
Standard keys are the most basic kind of car key. They've been in use for decades, and they are still the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can purchase at an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly affordable to duplicate, but could cost a lot to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a modern option that has been available since 1995. They provide an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the key handle and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, but they offer greater protection against theft than traditional keys.
Another option is the switchblade key, which folds into the form of a key fob when in use. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly when the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
Additionally, there are the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was go to the local hardware store and get an alternative. It's a little more complicated in the present. There are numerous kinds of cars on the road, and each one has a unique key. Based on the type of car it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic kind. They're the ones you were able to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used for locking the door locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car keys repair.
The other type of key, that is the most common utilized, is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was introduced to cars in 1995 and can prevent them from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
The first step in fixing this kind of key is to determine the cause of the problem. In the majority of cases it is a problem with the cap of the key or the switch is the cause. To fix the issue, the key cap or the key switch will need to be removed with the appropriate tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is essential 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 important part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the plastic head of the key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. If the computer of the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't be able to start. The majority of cars manufactured since 1998 have this type of chip.
Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. They are not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain microchips that need to be programmed into the car's computer for them to work.
This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and entering the programming mode. This process is more complicated than simply cutting a blank and, because these devices aren't available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is an additional important factor. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that needs to be used to program their vehicles, which could add cost.
Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using scanning devices, and the extra peace of mind that comes with knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys feature a blade with a high level of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from being started if keys that aren't the right ones are used.
While this technology works to deter car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key is difficult to copy, but thieves can still make use of it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys have the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. However, laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more difficult to pick.
The key's design is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which can withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's affordable to repair it by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however they are more secure. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock and key repair near me cylinder makes it harder to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you don't make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful, key fobs can be finicky. They can't keep a charge forever, and they tend to cease functioning when you aren't expecting it. You could find yourself in an embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are taking your trunk full of groceries or going to work after a long and tiring day. It's possible to call for a locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob, including the kind of key it comes with and the materials it is made of. Brands are also an important factor as they can be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user while others require to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob doesn't respond or doesn't work at all A simple battery replacement may be the solution. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and can be purchased 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, then insert the new one with the same orientation.
If your mobile key fob repair fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. Although you may be able to do this on your own however, it's best to have an expert handle it in order to avoid any damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and simply buy 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 exact same at the same time.