Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing or, even worse, losing your car keys was not an problem. In fact, you could buy a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.
As cars have adapted to adapt to technological advances replacement of keys that have been lost is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about what factors into the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might think of a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced types of car keys that offer greater security. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will help people understand what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
Look At This of the most basic types of car keys is a standard key that has been used for a long time and is the most common option for the latest cars. These are keys that you can buy at a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Look At This that are standard can be copied at the cost of a small amount however, they can be expensive to replace if lost or damaged.
More modern options include the transponder key, which has been in use since 1995 and is security over traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but they offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they could be more expensive in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
Additionally, there are the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store and find a replacement. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each has a different key. Depending on the model, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys, are the most basic type. They're the ones you used to be in a position to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have a transponder inside them and are intended for locking the door locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.
The other type of key, that is the most popular utilized, is the transponder key. It has a tiny transponder located in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the validity of the key. This feature was added to vehicles in 1995 and prevents the ignition from starting when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this type of key the first step is to determine the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases it is a problem with the key cap or key switch is the culprit. To fix this issue, the key cap and the key switch should be removed with an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the key switch is essential as it will help in removing issues such as key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys", are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition piston. The car will not start if the computer does not get the right response. Most cars produced since 1998 have this type of chip.
The issue is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer for them to function.
This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering a programming mode. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that the tools aren't accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to pay more for this service than if you replace the basic mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is another important factor. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used in order to program their vehicles, which could add cost.
Some people prefer that a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your vehicle. Based on the make and model, you may be in a position to save money by bringing your car directly to the dealership to arrange for the installation of your new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys feature blades that have a high degree of security. They were introduced in 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted to stop the vehicle from being started in the event that the wrong keys are used.
This technology can hinder car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The key's unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the proper tools and equipment can still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that's easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel which can endure wear and tear for a long period before it wears out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's affordable to have it repaired by locksmiths.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they provide increased 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 lost or stolen in the event that you fail to take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are practical. They don't last for long, and they're likely to stop functioning at the moment you aren't expecting it. You may find yourself in a embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions, especially if you are taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. You may have to call a locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost you a significant amount to get your car back on the road.
A variety of factors affect the price of a fob, including the type of key it is made of and the materials used. It also depends on the brand which is usually more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob does not work or is working infrequently, a new battery may be the solution. These batteries are typically less than $10 and are available at hardware stores or big box retailers and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of your key fob and insert the new one in the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. While you can find ways to do this on your own, it's best to have professionals handle the task to prevent 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 purchase a replacement to save money. However, if you've lost both your fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.