Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys weren't a big deal. You could purchase a spare key at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
As cars have adapted to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is becoming more difficult and costly. Find out more about the elements that affect the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. While these are the most popular kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of types that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key, that has been used for decades and remains the most popular choice for cars with modern technology. These are keys that you can purchase at a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are affordable to duplicate, but could cost a lot to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a modern option that has been around since 1995. They provide a more secure alternative to traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but they offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they could be more expensive if the shank or handle of the key is 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 you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store to get an alternative. It's a little more complicated in the present. There are many kinds of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on its type, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. They're the ones you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not have a transponder and are used to lock the trunk or doors, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most commonly used in use is the transponder key. It has a transponder inside the key head that sends a coded signal to your car's ignition system to confirm that the key is legitimate. The system was put in cars starting in 1995. It stops the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or lost one.
To fix this kind of key the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases the issue is with the key cap or key switch is the culprit. To resolve this issue, the key cap or switch will need to be removed carefully using an instrument. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is important because it can help solve issues such as key chatter. This is a reference to keys which allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft system. The small microchip embedded inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. The car won't start if the computer doesn't receive the correct response. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.
The problem is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They also have an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that needs to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work properly.
This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and then entering the programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop, you'll spend more than when replacing the basic mechanical key.
Another factor is the model and make of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used in order to program their vehicles, which will add cost.
Some prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna, and using a scanning device and the assurance that comes from knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. Depending on the make and model you might be able to save money by going directly to the dealership to arrange for the installation of your new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a form of car key with high-security blade. They came on the scene in the 1990s, and are used to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used.
While this technology helps protect against car thieves but it's not able to stop them entirely. The key's unique blade and shape are difficult to duplicate, however a burglar with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel that can withstand lots of wear and tear before wearing out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by an experienced locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still at risk of being lost or stolen if you do not take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are practical. They don't last forever and tend to stop working when you least expect them. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in a tense situation, especially when you're putting in your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long day. You may need to call for an 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. It is also dependent on the brand that is more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob will not function or functions intermittently, a replacement battery may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and on the internet. To replace Suggested Looking at , gently pry the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery in the same way that the old one had.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning correctly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying new keys and fobs in the event that you already have one. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's worth the cost to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the same at the same time.