Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't too long ago that losing or, even worse, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could buy an extra key at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
However, as cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys has become more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that influence the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might think of a simple metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most common types of car keys, there are many other types that are more advanced and have enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will help people understand what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard one, that has been used for decades and remains the most common option for the latest cars. These are the keys you can purchase from a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys of the standard type are inexpensive to copy, but could be costly to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, which has been used since 1995 and is a more secure solution than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of loss or damage, but they are more secure against theft than standard keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade that folds down into a key fob when not in use. They cost more than normal keys, but they may cost more in the event that the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. 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 out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store to get a replacement. Today things are more complicated. There are many different types of cars available and each comes with a unique key. Based on the type of car it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. They were the keys you could buy from the hardware store for a few dollars. They do not have a transponder and are used to secure the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.
The transponder key is the other type that is commonly used. This key has a small transponder in the head of the key that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the validity of the key. key fob repair near me was added to vehicles in 1995 and prevents the ignition from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used.
To fix this type of key the first step is to determine the reason for its malfunction. In most cases the issue is with the cap on the key or switch is the reason. To correct this problem, the cap of the key and the key switch should be removed carefully using an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the problem. Lubricating the key switch is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate issues such as key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are a vital component of your car's anti-theft system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits a signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer can't receive the correct response. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The issue is that they are more expensive to replace. Apart from having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they contain a special microchip that must be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function properly.
Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and, because these devices aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you might pay more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
Another consideration is the model and make of the car you are driving. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used in order to program their vehicles, which will add cost.
Some people prefer to have professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using scanners and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. Depending on your model and make you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the car dealership to install your new chip.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They came on the scene in the 1990s, and are used to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started when keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology can deter car thieves but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the appropriate tools and equipment could still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. But laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that can withstand lots of wear and tear before fading out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer increased security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock make it difficult to duplicate. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Even though they're convenient but key fobs can be difficult to use. They won't last forever and are likely to cease functioning when you most likely don't. You may find yourself in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are loading up your trunk with groceries or going to work after a exhausting day. It's possible to call for an locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
There are many factors that affect the price of a fob, including the type of key it contains and the materials it is made of. Brands are also a factor in that they can be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user, while others require to be programmed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob will not function or functions intermittently, a replacement battery might be the solution. The coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the key fob, then insert the new one with the same orientation.
It's up to your dealer reprogramme it if your key fob has been damaged or is not functioning as it should. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you could skip this step and simply purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the exact same time.