Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys weren't an issue. In fact, you could find a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith. As cars have adapted to adapt to technological advances replacement of keys that have been lost is more difficult and expensive. Find out more about the elements that affect the cost of replacing a car key. Basic Keys When people think about their car keys, they usually imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. While these are the most popular kinds of keys for cars, there are many other types that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between different kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing them. One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key that has been in use for decades and remains the most popular choice for newer cars. These are the keys that you can purchase from an hardware store and then connect 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 an innovative option that has been around since 1995. They are an extra-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 are more expensive to replace in the event of a damage or loss, but they offer greater protection against theft than conventional keys. Switchblade keys are another option. They fold up into a keyfob when not being used. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged. There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' special tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was head to the local hardware store and get a replacement. Nowadays things are more complicated. There are several types of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on its type it can cost more or less than 50 dollars. Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. They are the keys that you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the door or trunk locks, but not for starting 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 transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to confirm that the key is in fact valid. This system was installed in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It prevents them from being started with an unauthorised key or lost one. To fix this kind of key, the first step is to figure out what's causing the malfunction. Most of the time 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 with the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as it will help in removing issues like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. If the computer of the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. Most cars produced from 1998 include this type of chip. The problem is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain a microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to work. This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode. It is more complicated than simply cutting a blank from scratch, and since these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop, you'll pay more for this service than when replacing the basic mechanical key. Another aspect is the model and make of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars which can increase the cost. Some people prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device as well as the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. Depending on the make and model you may be saving money by bringing your car directly to the car dealership for the installation of your new chip. Laser Cut Keys Keys Laser cut keys have blades that have a high level of security. They were introduced in 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are harder to duplicate and have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted to stop the vehicle from being started when the wrong keys are used. This technology helps hinder car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The key's unique blade and shape are difficult to duplicate, but anyone with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to gain entry into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that's easy for a burglar to pick. However, laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more resistant to picking. The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which can withstand lots of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key does wear out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith. While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they offer increased security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the proper steps to protect them. Key Fobs Even though they're convenient but key fobs can be tricky. They won't last forever and often stop functioning when you most likely don't. You could find yourself in an embarrassing situation if your device fails in the middle of carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. You may have to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost you a significant amount to get your car back on the road. The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob could affect the cost. Brands are also an important factor in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others need to be programmed by an authorized dealer. If your key fob will not work or works infrequently, a new battery could be the answer. These coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace key fob repair , gently pry the two halves of the key fob apart and then insert the new one with the same orientation that the old one had. It's up to your dealer reset it if the key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning properly. While you can find ways to do this on your own however, it's best to let professionals handle the task to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If remote key repairs have spare keys and fob, you could bypass this step and buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the same time.
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