Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past the loss of car keys was not an issue. In fact, you could buy a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
However, as vehicles have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Read on to learn more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they could think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most commonly used types of car keys but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to anticipate when replacing or fixing keys.
Standard keys are the simplest type of car keys. They've been in use for decades, and they are still the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase from a hardware store and hook to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at the cost of a small amount however they can be costly to replace in the event of loss or damaged.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key which has been in use since 1995 and is security over traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of a damage or loss, but they offer greater protection against theft than standard keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade, which folds into a key fob when not in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be even more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
Additionally, there are smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These are more expensive than standard keys and could require a locksmith's special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to your local hardware store and find an alternative. The process is a bit more complicated in the present. There are a variety of cars available and each has a unique key. Depending on the type that you are replacing, it could cost you more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you were in a position to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not come with transponders and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.
The transponder key is a different type that is commonly used. It has a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to confirm that the key is in fact valid. The system was put in cars starting in 1995. It protects them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to figure out what's causing the malfunction. Most of the time the reason is due to either a problem with the key cap or the key switch. To fix this, the key cap and key switch must be removed with an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because this can help to eliminate issues such as key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your car. The small microchip embedded inside the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition piston. The car won't start if the computer does not get the right response. This type of chip is found in most cars manufactured since 1998.
Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. Apart from having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to work effectively.
Connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. It is more complicated than simply cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that these tools aren't readily accessible in every locksmith shop you'll be charged more than if you replace a standard mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is an additional factor. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars and increase the cost.
Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the complicated procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna, and using scanners and the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys come with blades that have a high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. remote key fob repair are more difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting if the wrong key is used.
This technology does prevent car thefts, however it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to copy, but a burglar can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional key come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by an experienced locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it difficult to duplicate. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the proper precautions to keep them safe.
Key Fobs
Even though they're convenient keys can be difficult to use. They won't last forever and often stop working when you most likely don't. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in a tense situation, especially if you're loading your car with groceries or leaving for work after an extended day. You might need to call a locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob could affect the cost. It is also dependent on the brand that is more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others need to be reprogrammed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob doesn't respond 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. 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 the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. While there are ways to do this on your own, it's best to let an expert handle it in order to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing new keys and fobs if you already have one. If, however, you've lost both your fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.