Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could buy keys at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
As cars have evolved to adapt to technological advances replacement of keys that have been lost is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that impact the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While those are the most common types of car keys however, there are other types that are more advanced and have enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars can help people know what to expect when it comes to replacing or repairing keys.
One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard key that has been in use for decades and remains the most popular choice for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase from an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. remote key repairs can be copied for the cost of a small amount, but they are expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been used since 1995 and is an extra secure option than traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but offer better protection against theft than conventional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade, which folds into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They are more expensive than standard keys, however they may cost more if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
Additionally, there are the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or stopped working, you had to visit the local hardware store and purchase a new one. Today things are more complicated. There are a variety of cars available, and each one has a unique key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. They were the keys you could replace at the hardware store for a few cents. They don't have a transponder and are used to secure the trunk or doors, but not to start the car.
The other kind of key, which is the most commonly used utilized, is the transponder key. This key has a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal to your car's ignition system to verify that the key is valid. The system was put in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops them from being started with an unauthorised key or a lost one.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to identify what's causing the malfunction. Most of the time the issue is with the key cap or key switch is the culprit. To correct this problem, the cap of the key and switch need to be removed with tools, then cleaned and lubricated to fix the issue. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as it can help eliminate issues like 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 vehicle. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer does not receive the correct response. This type of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
The problem is that they are more expensive to replace. They're not just different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain a microchip that needs to be programmed into the car's computer for them to function.
Connecting a diagnostic tool with the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. It is more complicated than just cutting a blank from scratch, and since these devices are not readily accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than when replacing a basic mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is another factor. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that needs to be used to program their vehicles, which could add cost.
Some people prefer that professional programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device, and the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Depending on the make and model you might be in a position to save money by visiting the dealer for the installation of the new chip.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys have blades that have a high level of security. They came on the scene in the 1990s and work to prevent vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate, and they have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, which stops the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used.
While this technology can protect against car thieves but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key is difficult to duplicate, however a burglar can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your car. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that's easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key's design 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. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive but 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 vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the proper steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable even though they're practical. They don't last forever and are likely to cease functioning when you least expect them. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in an embarrassing situation, especially if you're packing your car with food items or heading off to work after a long day. You may need to call a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key and the materials used in the fob could affect the price. Brands are also a factor in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others require to be programmed by a dealer.
If your key fob will not work or works infrequently, a new battery may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pull the two parts of the key fob and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the previous one.
It's up to your dealer change the program if your key fob has been damaged or is no longer functioning properly. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage which could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can 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 new key at the same at the same time.