Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys Not so long ago the loss of car keys was not a big deal. You could purchase a spare key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith. However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys has become more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that influence the cost of a replacement car key. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car keys that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys can help people know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them. Standard keys are the simplest type of car key. They've been around for many years, and remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are the keys you can buy at a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys of the standard type are affordable to duplicate, but could cost a lot to replace if they're lost or damaged. The most modern alternatives include the transponder keys, that has been used since 1995 and is a more secure solution than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but they offer better protection against theft than traditional keys. Another alternative is the switchblade that folds down into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They are more expensive than normal keys to replace, but they are more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged. There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. They cost more than standard keys and could require a locksmith's special tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the past when your car key was damaged or was not working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to purchase new keys. The process is a bit more complicated today. There are several types of vehicles in use and each one has its own key. Based on the model the key is replaced, it could cost more or less than $50. Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. They're the ones you used to be able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used for locking the trunk or door locks, but not to start the car. The other type of key, that is the most popular in use is the transponder key. This key has a small transponder in the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your car to verify the validity of the key. This system was installed in cars starting in 1995. It stops the ignition from being started by an unauthorised key or a lost one. The first step to fix this kind of key is to determine what's causing the issue. Most of the time it is a problem with the cap of the key or the switch is the reason. To resolve this problem, the key cap or key switch will need to be removed carefully using the appropriate tool. car key fob repairs will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is important because it can help solve issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys which can register multiple inputs when they are pressed. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition key cylinder. If the computer in the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't begin to turn on. The majority of cars manufactured from 1998 include this type of chip. The issue is that they are more expensive to replace. They also have a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that needs to be programmed into your car's computer to work properly. Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer, and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. It is more complicated than just cutting a blank from scratch, and since the tools aren't accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to be charged more than with the replacement of a basic mechanical key. The make and model of your vehicle is a different important factor. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars, which increases your cost. Some people prefer that a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing a scanning device and the security that comes with knowing that you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You may be able save money by going directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used. This technology helps hinder car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key is difficult to duplicate, however burglars can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock that is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick. The key is also more durable compared to conventional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and is able to endure wear and wear for a long time before it becomes worn out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively inexpensive to replace it by a professional locksmith. Laser-cut keys are more expensive, but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still at risk of being stolen or lost in the event that you fail to make the proper precautions. Key Fobs Even though they're convenient but key fobs can be tricky. They don't last for long, and they're likely to shut down at the moment you most likely won't notice it. A malfunctioning device can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're packing your trunk full of groceries or leaving for work after a long day. It's possible to need a locksmith or a tow truck, and it may cost 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 influence the cost. It also depends on the manufacturer which is usually more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user, while others require to be reprogrammed by an authorized dealer. If your key fob isn't responding or doesn't work at all A simple battery replacement could fix the issue. These batteries are typically $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation. If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. While there are ways to do this on your own, it's best to have professionals handle the task to avoid any damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and purchase a replacement to save money. If you've lost both your fob and keys, it's worth the extra expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.
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