Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or worse losing your car key repair cost keys was not a big problem. You could buy an extra key at the local auto parts store or locksmith.

However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Find out more about what factors into the total cost of car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they could think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While these are the most common kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car keys can help people to know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

Standard keys are the simplest type of car key. They've been in use for a long time, and are still the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys you can buy at an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied at a relatively low cost, but they are expensive to replace if lost or damaged.

Modern alternatives include the transponder key which has been used since 1995 and offers an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if they are lost or damaged, but provide greater security against theft than traditional keys.

Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold into a keyfob when not being used. They're more expensive than regular keys, but they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

Lastly, there are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. These are more expensive than standard keys and may require a locksmith's specific tools to Repair car key remote.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was head to your local hardware store and obtain a replacement. The process is a bit more complicated today. There are several types of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the model the key is replaced, it could cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. They were the keys you could buy from the hardware store for a few pennies. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used to lock the door locks or trunk locks, but not to start the car.

The other type of key, which is the most common in use is the transponder keys. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the validity of the key. This system was installed in cars starting in 1995. It protects the ignition from being started by an unauthorized key or a lost one.

To fix this kind of key the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases, the cause is due to a problem with the cap of the key or the key switch. To correct this, the key cap and switch need to be removed carefully using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch is crucial since it can eliminate issues like key chatter. This is a reference to keys that allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are a vital component of your car's anti-theft security system. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key repairs near me key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. If the computer in the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder it won't be able to start. This type of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.

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

Connecting a diagnostic device to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is how you accomplish this. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and due to the fact that these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop, you'll be charged more than if you replace a standard mechanical key.

The make and model of your vehicle is a different important factor. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.

Some prefer having a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device and the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealer to have your new chip installed.

Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys feature blades that have a high level of security. They were introduced in 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted to stop the vehicle from starting when keys that aren't the right ones are used.

This technology can prevent car key remote repair thefts, however it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key is difficult to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the right tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys use the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock, which is much more resistant to picking.

The key is also more durable in comparison to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can stand up to wear and tear for a long period before it wears out. If the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by a seasoned locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the proper security measures to ensure their safety.

Key Fobs

While they're handy keys can be tricky. They don't last for long, and they're likely to cease functioning at the moment you aren't expecting it. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially if you're packing your trunk full of food items or heading off to work after an exhausting day. You may need to call locksmith services or a tow truck, and it can cost a lot 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 can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.

If your key fob isn't responding or intermittently works If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery might fix the issue. The coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one in the same orientation.

You'll need your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob is damaged or is not working properly. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and simply purchase a new one to save money. However, if you've lost both keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.