Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or worse, losing keys to your car was not an issue. You could buy a spare key at the local auto parts store or locksmith.
However, as cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys has become more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that impact the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they often think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can offer enhanced security. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars will help people determine what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing them.
One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard one, that has been used for decades and remains the most popular choice for newer cars. These are keys that you can buy at the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied for an affordable price, but they are expensive 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 provides a more secure solution than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold into a keyfob when not being used. They're more expensive than normal keys to replace, but they are more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key broke or was not working, you had to visit the local hardware store to purchase new keys. The process is a bit more complicated in the present. There are a variety of cars on the road and each comes with distinct keys. Based on the model, replacing it may cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. They are the keys that you used to be able to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not contain a transponder within them and are intended for locking the door or trunk locks but not for starting the car.
The other kind of key, which is the most commonly used utilized, is the transponder key. Learn Additional Here has an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal the ignition system in your car to confirm that the key is in fact valid. This feature was added to automobiles in 1995, and can stop the ignition from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to identify what's causing the malfunction. In the majority of cases the reason is due to either an issue with the key cap or the key switch. To fix this issue problem, the cap of the key and key switch must be carefully removed using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to fix the problem. Lubricating the key switch is essential as this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your vehicle. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer does not get the right response. Most cars produced in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The issue is, the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to function.
This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to the car's computer and entering a programming mode. This process can be more complex than cutting a blank since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you might have to pay more than if were to replace the mechanical key.
Another aspect is the make and model of the car you are driving. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.
Some people prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, including cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna, and using scanning devices, and the extra security that comes with knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Depending on your make and model, you may be in a position to save money by visiting the dealership to arrange to install your new chip.
Keys 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 prevent theft of vehicles. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from starting when keys that are not the correct ones are used.
This technology does deter car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key are difficult to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The key's design is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which can withstand lots of wear and tear before wearing out. But, if the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively inexpensive to replace it by a seasoned locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful, key fobs can be tricky. They can't keep a charge for a long time, and they are likely to shut down when you least expect to notice. You could end up in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions in the middle of carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a tiring day. Learn Additional Here to call for a locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost a lot to get your car back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob. These include the type of key it contains and the materials it is made of. It also depends on the manufacturer which is usually more expensive. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob is unresponsive or intermittently works If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob, then insert the new battery with the same orientation.
It's up to your dealer change the program if your key fob is damaged or is not functioning as it should. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying an additional key and fob in the event that you already have one. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same time.