Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or worse, losing your car keys wasn't a big problem. You could purchase keys at the local auto parts store or locksmith.
As cars have evolved to keep up with technological advancements replacement of keys that have been lost is becoming more difficult and costly. Read on to learn more about the factors that influence the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When we think of our car keys, many think of a simple metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. There are many more advanced types of car keys that offer greater security. Knowing the distinctions between different kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to anticipate when replacing or repair keys.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key that has been used for a long time and is the most popular choice for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase at a hardware shop and connect to your keychain. Standard keys can be copied for a relatively low cost however they can be costly to replace when lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a modern alternative that has been in use since 1995. They provide a more secure alternative to traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a damage or loss, but they provide greater protection against theft than standard keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade that folds down into the form of a key fob when in use. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly when the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
Lastly, there are also car key repair service that have built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key broke or stopped working, you had to visit the local hardware store to get new keys. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are numerous kinds of cars on the road and each comes with distinct keys. Depending on the model, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. These were the keys that could be replaced at a hardware store for a few cents. They don't have an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most commonly used utilized is the transponder keys. It has a transponder in the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to confirm that the key is valid. This system was added to automobiles in 1995, and can stop them from being started if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
The first step to fix this type of key is to determine the cause of the problem. In the majority of cases, a problem with either the cap of the key or the switch is the cause. To fix the issue, the key cap or switch must be removed carefully using an instrument. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as it can help eliminate issues such as key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition piston. The car won't start if the computer does not get the correct response. This kind of chip can be found in most cars manufactured from 1998 onwards.
The issue is that the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. Apart from having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a special microchip that must be programmed into your car's computer to function effectively.
Connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because 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 factor is the model and make of your car. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used in order to program their vehicles, which can add cost.
Some people prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, including cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing a scanning device and the security that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. Depending on your model and make 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.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys come with a blade with a high degree of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are harder to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, preventing the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key is used.
This technology can prevent car thefts, however it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key is difficult to duplicate, but 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 that's easy for burglars to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock, which is much more resistant to picking.
The design of the key is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and can endure wear and tear for a long period before it becomes worn out. If the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they provide more security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being stolen or lost if you don't make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
While they're handy but key fobs can be finicky. They can't keep a charge forever, and they tend to cease functioning when you most likely won't notice it. A malfunctioning device can put you in a tense situation, especially when you're loading your trunk full of food items or heading off to work after an exhausting day. You may need to call for a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost a lot to get your car back on the road.
There are many factors that affect the price of a fob, such as the type of key it contains and the materials it is made of. Brands are also an important factor in that they can be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others must be reprogrammed by an authorized 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 usually cost less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores, big box retailers, and online. To replace the battery, gently pull the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new one with the same orientation as the previous one.
You'll need your dealer to reset it if the key fob has been damaged or is no longer functioning as it should. You can do it yourself, but it's better to leave it to an expert to avoid accidental damage which could lead to expensive repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing new keys and fobs if you already have one. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same time.