Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or, even worse, losing keys to your car was not a big issue. In fact, you could probably buy a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.
However, as cars have advanced to meet the demands of technology the process of replacing keys has become more complicated and expensive. Read on to learn more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While these are the most commonly used types of car keys but there are a variety of types that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car keys will help people know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard one, which has been around for decades and is still the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase from an establishment that sells hardware and connect to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder key which has been in use since 1995 and is an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of damage or loss, but they are more secure against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they could be more expensive when the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. car key repair near me are more expensive and require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or was not working, you had to go to the local hardware store and purchase new keys. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are many different types of cars available and each has an individual key. Based on the type of car it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. These keys were the ones could be replaced at a hardware shop for a few pennies. They don't have an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or doors but not to start the car.
The transponder key is the other type that is frequently used. This key has a small transponder located in the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. This feature was added to vehicles in 1995 and can prevent them from being started if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
To fix this kind of key the first step is to determine what's causing the malfunction. In the majority of cases it is due to a problem with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this issue problem, the cap of the key and key switch must be carefully removed using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the issue. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys" are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the head of the key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer does not get the correct response. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The issue is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. Apart from having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a special microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to function properly.
This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to the car's computer and then entering the programming mode. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you could be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is a different aspect. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which could increase the cost.
Some prefer to have professional programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures involved, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna, and using scanners as well as the assurance that comes with knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Based on the make and model you might be in a position to save money by bringing your car directly to the dealership to arrange for the installation of the new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys come with a blade with a high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used.
While this technology helps deter car thieves, it doesn't prevent them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to duplicate, however a burglar can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable in comparison to conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel and can withstand lots of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you do not take the proper precautions to keep them safe.
Key Fobs
While they're handy keys can be finicky. They don't last for a long time, and they are likely to cease functioning at the moment you least expect it. A malfunctioning device can put you in a difficult situation, especially when you're loading your trunk with groceries or heading to work after an exhausting day. You might need to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck, and it may cost you a significant amount to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob could affect the price. 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 a dealer.
If your key fob isn't responding or doesn't work at all A simple battery replacement might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently break off 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 have to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can bypass this step and purchase a new one to save money. However, if you've lost both fob and keys, it's worth the extra expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.