Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that losing or, even worse, losing keys to your car was not an issue. You could purchase an extra key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
However, as cars have adapted to technological advancement the process of replacing keys has become more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the factors that influence the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people to know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
Keys that are standard are the most basic type of car keys. They have been around for a long time, and are still the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys you can purchase from a hardware shop and connect to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at the cost of a small amount however, they can be expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.
Transponder keys are a modern alternative that has been in use since 1995. They are a more secure alternative to traditional keys. These have microchips in the key handle and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but they offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They're more expensive than normal keys, but they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was head to your local hardware store to get an alternative. It's a little more complicated today. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road and each has distinct keys. Depending on its type it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest kind. They are the keys that you were in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not have a transponder and are used to secure the trunk or doors but not to start the car.
The transponder key is the other type that is commonly used. This key has a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal the ignition system in your car to verify that the key is legitimate. This system was installed in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops them from being started with an unauthorised key or a lost one.
The first step to fix this type of key is to determine what is causing the malfunction. Most of the time it is due to either a problem with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this the key cap and switch need to be removed with a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch is crucial since it can solve issues such as key chatter. car remote key repair refers to keys which register multiple inputs when pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys", are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the head of the key transmits a signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. The car won't start if the computer doesn't get the right response. This kind of chip can be present in the majority of cars made from 1998 onwards.
The issue is that they're more expensive to replace. In addition to having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a special microchip that has to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function effectively.
Connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. This process is more complex than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you could have to pay more than if were to replace a mechanical key.
Another factor is the model and make of your vehicle. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles which can increase the cost.
Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, which include cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using scanners as well as the security that comes with knowing you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. Depending on your make and model you might be saving money by bringing your car directly to the dealership to arrange for the installation of your new chip.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys have a blade with a high level of security. 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 within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key is used.
This technology can prevent car thefts, however it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to duplicate, however a burglar can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your car. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that's easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more resistant to picking.
The key is also more durable in comparison to conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's fairly inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, lock cylinder and the transponder make it more difficult to duplicate. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the proper security measures to ensure their safety.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful, key fobs can be tricky. They can't keep a charge for long, and they're likely to cease functioning when you least expect to notice. A malfunctioning device can put you in a tense situation, especially when you're loading your car with groceries or leaving for work after an extended day. This Web page might need to call for a locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
A variety of factors affect the price of a fob, including the type of key it contains and the materials it is made of. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. 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 doesn't work at all If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery could fix the issue. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost less than $10 and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and even online. 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 is damaged or is not functioning properly. You can do this yourself, but it's best to leave it to an expert to avoid accidental damage which could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and simply purchase a replacement to save money. However, if you've lost both fob and keys, it's worth the extra expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.