Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing or, even worse losing your car keys wasn't a big issue. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
However, as cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Read on to learn more about what factors into the total cost of car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When we think of our car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Knowing the differences between different types of keys for cars can help people know what to expect when it comes to replacing or repairing the keys.
Standard keys are the most basic type of car key. They've been in use for many years, and remain the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are keys that you can purchase at the hardware store and attach to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at an affordable price however, they can be expensive to replace if lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder key which has been used since 1995 and provides security over traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key, and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into a keyfob when not being used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but could be more expensive in the event that the handle or shank of the key is damaged.
There are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key was damaged or stopped working, you only had to go to the local hardware store and purchase new keys. The process is a bit more complicated today. There are a variety of cars on the road and each comes with an individual key. Depending on the type the key is replaced, it could cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you were in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or the doors, but they are not used to start the car.
The transponder key is the other type that is frequently used. It has a tiny transponder located in the head of the key which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the authenticity of the key. This feature was added to automobiles in 1995, and can stop them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to determine the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases the reason is due to either a problem with the key cap or the key switch. To resolve this issue, the cap or switch must be removed with a tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because this can help to eliminate problems like 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 tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the key transmits a signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder of ignition. If the computer of the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't be able to start. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
The issue is that they're more expensive to replace. Apart from having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that must be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to work correctly.
Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. This procedure can be more complicated than cutting a blank since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you could pay more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
Another factor is the make and model of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which will add cost.
Some people prefer that a professional program their transponder keys. This is because of the intricate procedures involved, which include cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing a scanning device, and the extra security that comes with knowing that you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. Based on the make and model, you may be able to save money by visiting the car dealership for the installation of the new chip.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys feature blades that have a high degree of security. They came on the scene in the 1990s and help to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting if the wrong keys are used.
This technology can deter car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The key's unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, however a burglar with the right tools and equipment can still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock which is more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel and is able to withstand wear and wear for a long time before it becomes worn out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer increased security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. auto key repair are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost if you do not make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable, even though they are convenient. They won't last forever and are likely to cease functioning when you most likely don't. You may find yourself in a embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or going to work after a exhausting day. It's possible to call an locksmith or a tow truck and it can cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob may influence the cost. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob will not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery might be the solution. The coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the old one.
It's up to your dealer change the program if your key fob has been damaged or is no longer functioning properly. While there are ways to do this on your own however, 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. If you have a spare key and fob, you can skip this step and simply purchase a replacement to save money. If, however, you've lost both fob and keys, it's worth the extra expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.