Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

In the past, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys wasn't an issue. In fact, you could find a spare at an auto Key fob repair parts store or at your local locksmith.

However, as cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys has become more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the factors that affect the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think about their car remote key repair keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced types of car keys that offer greater security. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people understand what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

Standard keys are the most basic kind of car key. They've been in use for a long time, and are still the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can purchase at an establishment that sells hardware and connect to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are cheap to copy, however they can be expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.

Transponder keys are a modern option that has been around since 1995. They are an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key, and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they become lost or damaged, but offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.

Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be more costly when the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.

There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. They cost more than standard keys and could require a locksmith's special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was go to the local hardware store and get an alternative. It's a little more complicated today. There are many different types of vehicles on the road and each comes with distinct keys. Depending on the type, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest type. These are the ones that you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not come with an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or doors but they are not used to start the car.

The transponder keys are the other type, and is the most commonly used. This key has a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal your car's ignition system to confirm that the key is valid. The system was introduced to automobiles in 1995 and can prevent them from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

To fix this kind of key the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases the reason is due to an issue with the key cap or the key switch. To resolve this issue, the key cap or key switch will need to be removed with a tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as it will help in removing problems like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an essential part of the anti-theft system in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits a signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer doesn't receive the correct response. This type of chip is found in most cars manufactured since 1998.

The problem is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. Apart from having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they have a specific microchip that needs to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to function correctly.

This process is done by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the computer in your car and entering a programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than with the replacement of a basic mechanical key.

The make and model of your vehicle is another aspect. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.

Some prefer having professional programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device and the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Based on the model and make, you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the dealer for the installation of your new chip.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys have blades that have a high degree of security. They came on the scene in the 1990s and work to stop vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, which stops the vehicle from starting if the wrong key is used.

While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them from doing so completely. The key's unique blade and shape are difficult to duplicate, but anyone with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock, which is much more resistant to picking.

The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary security measures to ensure their safety.

Key Fobs

Even though they're convenient but key fob repair near me fobs can be difficult to use. They won't last forever and tend to stop functioning when you least expect them. You may find yourself in a embarrassing situation if the fob fails, especially if you are taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a tiring day. You might need to contact a 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 affect the price. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others require to be programmed by a dealer.

If your key fob will not work or is working intermittently, a simple replacement battery might be the solution. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new one in the same way that the old one had.

If your key fob is damaged or no longer works correctly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage which could lead to expensive keyless entry repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, Key Fob Repair (Www.Google.Fm) you can bypass this step and purchase a replacement to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's worth the cost to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a new key at the exact same time.