Marisa McKeddie

Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

A few years ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys was not an issue. In fact, you could probably buy a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.

However, as vehicles have adapted to technological advancement the process of replacing keys has become more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, many think of a simple metal key repair shop that opens doors and then starts the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced types of car keys that can provide greater security. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys can help people know what to anticipate when replacing or repair keys.

One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard one, that has been in use for decades and remains the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys that you can buy at a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied at the cost of a small amount however they can be costly to replace if lost or damaged.

Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, which has been in use since 1995 and provides 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 can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but offer better protection 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 more expensive than regular keys, however they can be more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.

Additionally, there are the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote car key repair near me starts. They are more expensive than standard keys and could require a locksmith's special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was visit the local hardware store and get a replacement. It's a little more complicated now. There are several types of vehicles in use and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the model that you are replacing, it could cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. They are the keys that you were in a position to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors but they are not used to start the car.

The transponder key is the other type, and is the most frequently used. It has a tiny transponder in the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your car key lock repair near Me to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was added to vehicles in 1995 and prevents them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.

The first step in fixing this kind of key is to identify the cause of the problem. Most of the time the reason is due to an issue with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix the problem, the key cap or key switch must be removed with care using 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, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft security system. The small microchip embedded in the head of the key transmits a signal to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder that controls the ignition. If the computer in the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. This type of chip is used in all cars built from 1998 onwards.

The problem is that they are more expensive to replace. Apart from having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle key repairs's computer to work correctly.

This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the computer in your car key fob repair near me and entering a programming mode. This process is more complicated than cutting a blank because these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you might be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.

The make and model of your vehicle is a different factor. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars which can increase the cost.

Some prefer to have an expert program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures involved, including cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing scanning devices, and the extra security that comes from knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.

Keys Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys come with a blade with a high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and have transponder chips inside 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 works to protect against car thieves, it doesn't prevent them completely. The key's unique blade and shape is difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to gain entry into your vehicle. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that's easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, come with the sidewinder cylinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.

The key's design is also more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which can withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is fairly inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock makes it harder to duplicate. However, they are still 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 keys can be finicky. They don't hold a charge for long, and they're likely to stop functioning at the moment you aren't expecting to notice. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're putting in your trunk with food items or heading off to work after an exhausting day. It's possible to call for locksmith services or a tow truck and it can cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key used and the materials used in the fob can affect the cost. It also depends on the brand that is more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others must be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.

If your key fob will not work or works infrequently, a new battery could be the answer. The coin-shaped batteries can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob and then insert the new one in the same orientation.

It's up to your dealer change the program if your key fob has been damaged or is not working properly. Although you may be able to do this on your own however, it's best to let 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 can skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost both fob and keys it's worth the expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.