Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

A few years ago the loss of car keys was not a big deal. In fact, you could find a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.

However, as cars have adapted to technological advancement and technology, replacing keys that have been lost is becoming more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that affect the cost of a replacement 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. While these are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car keys can help people to know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.

One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard key, which has been around for decades and remains the most commonly used option for newer cars. 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 can be expensive to replace if they're lost or damaged.

Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, that has been used since 1995 and offers an extra secure option than traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the key handle and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of a loss or damage, but they provide greater protection against theft than standard keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade key, which folds into a key fob when not in use. They're more expensive than normal keys, however they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

There are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost your car Key repair cost key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store to get an alternative. Today things are more complicated. There are many different types of vehicles on the road and each has an individual key. Depending on the type that you are replacing, it could cost more or less than $50.

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

The transponder key is the other type one, and is the most frequently used. It has an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal your car's ignition system to verify that the key is legitimate. This system was introduced in vehicles as early as 1995. It protects the ignition from being started using an unauthorized key or a lost one.

The first step to fix this kind of key is to identify what is causing the malfunction. In the majority of cases, a problem with either the cap of the key or the switch is the culprit. To fix this issue, the cap or key switch will need to be removed with care using a tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because it can help eliminate issues such as key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The small microchip embedded inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. If the computer in the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.

The problem is, the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain a microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to function.

Connecting a diagnostic device 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 widely available in all locksmith shops, you may have to pay more than if were to replace the mechanical key.

The model and make of your vehicle is a different factor. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used to program their vehicles, which will add cost.

Some prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder key. 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 make and model you might be saving money by visiting the dealer to install your new chip.

Keys Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys have a blade with a high level of security. They were introduced in 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate and have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from starting if keys that aren't the right ones are used.

This technology helps deter car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key is difficult to duplicate, however thieves can still make use of it with the appropriate tools to gain keyless entry repairs to your car. This is because traditional key fob repairs have a standard lock that's easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.

The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel and can withstand wear and tear for a long period before it wears out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is affordable to have it repaired by a locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being stolen or lost if you do not take the appropriate precautions.

key repair near me Fobs

Even though they're convenient, key fobs can be tricky. They don't hold a charge for a long time, and they are likely to cease functioning when you most likely won't notice to notice. You could find yourself in a embarrassing situation if the fob fails in the middle of taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. You may need to call locksmith services or a tow truck, and it can 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 can influence the cost. It also depends on the manufacturer 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 isn't responding or is not working A simple battery replacement might fix the issue. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost less than $10 and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the previous one.

If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll have to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's better to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and simply buy a replacement to save money. However, if you've lost both keys and fob, it's worth the extra expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.