Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys weren't a big deal. In fact, you could buy a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.
Since cars have been upgraded to accommodate technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is becoming more difficult and costly. Read on to learn more about the factors that influence the total cost of car key replacement.
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 many more advanced types of car keys that can offer enhanced security. Knowing the differences between different types of keys for cars can help people anticipate what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing them.
Standard keys are the most basic kind of car keys. They've been in use for decades, and they remain the most sought-after option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can purchase at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Keys of the standard type are inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are an innovative option that has been available since 1995. They are an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if lost or damaged, but offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into a keyfob when not being used. They're more expensive than standard keys, but they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
Additionally, there are smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was visit the local hardware store and obtain an alternative. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each one has its own key. Based on the model the key is replaced, it could cost you more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic kind. These keys were the ones could be replaced at a hardware shop for a few pennies. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used for locking the trunk or door locks, but not to start the car.
The transponder key is the other type, and is the most frequently used. This key has a transponder inside the key head that sends a coded signal to your car's ignition system to confirm that the key is valid. This system was installed in cars starting in 1995. It stops the ignition from being started using an unauthorized key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to identify the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases the reason is due to an issue with the key cap or the key switch. To fix this problem, the cap of the key and the key switch should be removed with a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the issue. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because it can help eliminate issues such as key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your vehicle. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. If website does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. Most cars built from 1998 include this type of chip.
The issue is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include a microchip that needs to be programmed into the car's computer in order to function.
Connecting a diagnostic tool to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is how you accomplish this. It is more complicated than just cutting a blank from scratch, and since these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop you'll pay more for this service than if you replace the basic mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is another important factor. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used in order to program their vehicles, which could add cost.
Some people prefer that a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and utilizing scanners and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. Based on the make and model you might be saving money by visiting the car dealership to install your new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a form of car key with high-security blade. They first came to the market in the 1990s and work to prevent vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting when the wrong key is used.
This technology does deter car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key is difficult to duplicate, however thieves can still make use of it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your car. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. However, laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more resistant to picking.
The design of the key is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and can withstand lots of wear and tear before fading out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder makes it harder to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being stolen or lost if you don't make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Even though they're convenient keys can be difficult to use. They aren't always reliable and are likely to cease working when you most likely don't. You could end up in an embarrassing situation if the fob fails particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a exhausting day. You may need to call an locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost a lot to get your car back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob, including the kind of key it comes with and its materials. Brands also play a role as they can 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 isn't responding or doesn't work at all A simple battery replacement might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new battery with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function correctly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. Although you may be able to do this yourself but it's better to have a professional handle it to avoid any damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you could skip this step and simply buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth the cost to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the same at the same time.