Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing or worse losing your car keys was not an issue. In fact, you could probably purchase a spare from an auto parts store or 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. 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 may think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While those are the most common kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars can help people anticipate what to expect when it comes to replacing or repairing keys.
Standard keys are the most basic type of car keys. They've been around for a long time, and remain the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys you can buy at a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively affordable to duplicate, but could cost a lot to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a new option that has been available since 1995. They provide a more secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, however they offer greater protection against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly if the shank or handle of the key has been damaged.
There are also the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to the local hardware store and find an alternative. Things are a bit more complicated in the present. There are many kinds of vehicles on the market and each one has its own key. Based on the model the key is replaced, it could cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. These are the ones that you were able to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not come with transponders and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but they are not used to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most commonly used one is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was introduced to cars in 1995 and prevents the ignition from starting when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to figure out what's causing the malfunction. In most cases it is due to an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this issue the key cap and key switch must be removed carefully using an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as it can help eliminate issues like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your car. The microchip inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. The car will not start if the computer can't get the correct response. Most cars produced since 1998 have this type of chip.
vehicle key repairs is that they are more expensive to replace. They also have an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a unique microchip that needs to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to function correctly.
Connecting a diagnostic device 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 blank from scratch, and since these tools aren't readily accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than when replacing a standard mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is another factor. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used to program their vehicles, which could increase your cost.
Some prefer having an expert program their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device, and the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. You could save money if you go directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that comes with a high-security blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key is used.
car keys repair can hinder car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are difficult to copy, but burglars can still use it with the right tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys use the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and can stand up to wear and wear for a long time before it becomes worn out. But, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they provide more security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost if you don't take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable even though they're convenient. They don't last for long, and they're likely to cease functioning at the moment you most likely won't notice to notice. You could find yourself in an embarrassing situation if the fob fails particularly when you are loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. You might need to call an locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost you a lot of money to get your car back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob, such as the type of key it is made of and its materials. It also depends on the brand which is usually more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others require to be reprogrammed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a simple replacement battery might be the solution. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts of the key fob and then insert the new one with the same orientation as the previous one.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. While you can find ways to do this yourself but it's better to let professionals handle the task to avoid any damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and simply purchase a replacement to save money. If 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.