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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

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

However, as vehicles have advanced to meet the demands of technology and technology, replacing keys that have been lost has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that influence the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they could think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are many more advanced types of car keys that can provide greater security. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys can help people know what to anticipate when replacing or fixing the keys.

One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard one, which has been around for decades and is still the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase from a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace if they're lost or damaged.

More modern options include the transponder key, which has been used since 1995 and is an extra secure option than traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key, and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of damage or loss, but they are more secure against theft than traditional keys.

Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are more expensive than standard keys, however they may cost more if 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 keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' specific tools to repair key.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days, 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 find a replacement. The process is a bit more complicated now. There are several types of vehicles in use and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on the model it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. They're the ones you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the door or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.

The other type of key, which is the most popular in use is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal the ignition system in your car to confirm that the key is valid. The system was put in vehicles as early as 1995. It protects them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.

The first step in fixing this kind of key is to pinpoint what's causing the issue. In most cases the reason is due to either an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this issue problem, the cap of the key and key switch must be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is crucial since it can remove issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys that allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft security system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. If the computer of the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't start. This kind of chip can be used in all cars built since 1998.

Problem is, they're more expensive to replace. They are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include an electronic chip that must be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to function.

Connecting a diagnostic tool to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. It is more complicated than just cutting a new blank, and because these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop you'll be charged more than when replacing a basic mechanical key.

Another aspect is the model and make of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which can add cost.

Some prefer having a professional program their transponder keys. It is due to the complex procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device and the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. Based on the model and make you might be able to save money by going directly to the dealer for the installation of your new chip.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys have a blade with a high level of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition key repair near me when they are inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting in the event that the incorrect key is used.

While this technology works to protect against car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them completely. The key's unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, however anyone with the right tools and equipment can still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock and key repair near me that is easy for a burglar to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more resistant to picking.

The key's design is also more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before fading out. If the key breaks or wears out, it is fairly inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith.

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

Key Fobs

Even though they're convenient, key fobs can be tricky. They won't last forever and tend to stop working at the moment you least expect them. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in a tense situation, especially if you're packing your car with food items or heading off to work after a long day. You might need to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck and it could cost a lot of money to get your car back on the road.

A variety of factors affect the price of a fob. These include the type of key it contains and the materials used. Brands also play a role 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 doesn't respond or doesn't work at all A simple battery replacement might fix the issue. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores, big box retailers, and online. To replace the battery, gently break apart the two halves of the key fob and insert the new one with the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. While there are ways to do this on your own however, it's best to let a professional handle it to avoid any damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing a new key and fob even if you already have. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key Repair and cut a brand new key at the exact same time.