Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or worse, losing keys to your car was not a big issue. In fact, you could probably purchase a spare from an auto parts store or your local locksmith.
However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances and technology, replacing keys that have been lost has become more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the elements that influence the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they could imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced types of car keys that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars will help people determine what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing the keys.
Standard keys are the most basic kind of car keys. They've been around for many years, and are still the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase at an hardware store and then connect to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively cheap to copy, however they could cost a lot to replace when they're damaged or lost.
Transponder keys are a new option that has been around since 1995. They offer an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into 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 loss or damage, but they provide greater protection against theft than traditional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade which folds up into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. They cost more than standard keys, and may require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key broke or stopped working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to purchase new keys. Things are a bit more complicated in the present. There are many kinds of vehicles on the market and each one has its own key. Based on car key repairs of car, it could 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 dollars. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used to lock the door or trunk locks, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most popular one, is the transponder key. This key has a small transponder inside the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This feature was added to cars in 1995 and prevents them from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. In the majority of cases the reason is due to either an issue with the key cap or the key switch. To fix this problem, the key cap or switch must be removed with care using the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is crucial since it can eliminate issues like key chatter. This is a reference to keys that can register multiple inputs when they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft system. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer can't receive the correct response. This kind of chip can be present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. In addition to having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that must be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work properly.
Connecting a diagnostic tool with your car's computer, and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. It's more complicated than simply cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop you'll spend more than when replacing a basic mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is a different factor. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that has to be used in order to program their vehicles, which can increase your cost.
Some prefer to have an expert program their transponder keys. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and utilizing a scanning device as well as the assurance that comes with knowing you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. Depending on your model and make you might be saving money by visiting the car dealership to install your new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have blades that have a high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s, and are used to prevent vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted to stop the vehicle from starting if the wrong keys are used.
This technology does deter car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key are hard to duplicate, however burglars can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your car. This is because traditional keys use the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. But laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more resistant to picking.
The design of the key is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel and is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before fading out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.
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 cylinder makes it harder 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 finicky. They can't keep a charge for a long time, and they are likely to stop functioning when you aren't expecting it. You may find yourself in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a tiring day. You might need to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck and it could cost you a significant amount to get your car back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob, such as the type of key it is made of and its materials. Brands are also a factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob doesn't respond or doesn't work at all If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery may be the solution. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently break apart the two halves of your key fob and insert the new one with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. While there are ways to do this on your own however, it's best to have an expert handle it in order to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could bypass this step and buy a replacement to save money. If, however, you've lost both fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.