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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing or, even worse losing your car keys wasn't a big issue. In fact, you could find a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.

As cars have evolved to adapt to technological advances replacement of keys that have been lost is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that affect the total cost of car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can offer enhanced security. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will allow people to know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.

One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key, that has been in use for decades and is still the most common option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can buy at the hardware store and attach to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively cheap to copy, however they can be expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.

The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been in use since 1995 and is an extra secure option than traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key, and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but they offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.

Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold up into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They are more expensive than standard keys, but they may cost more when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

Lastly, there are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. They are more expensive than standard keys, and may require locksmith's tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when your car key was damaged or stopped working, you only had to go to the local hardware store to purchase new keys. The process is a bit more complicated today. There are a variety of vehicles in use and each has a different key. Based on the model that you are replacing, it could cost more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. These were the keys that you could replace at the hardware shop for a few cents. They do not have an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or doors, but not to start the car.

The transponder key is the other type one, and is the most frequently used. This key has a small transponder in the head of the key that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was introduced in cars starting in 1995. It stops the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or a lost one.

To fix this type of key, the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. In the majority of cases, a problem with either the cap on the key or switch is the culprit. To fix this the key cap and the key switch should be carefully removed using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is important because it can help eliminate issues like key chatter. This is the case with keys that register multiple inputs when they are pressed.

Transponder keys repair

Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an essential part of the anti-theft system in your car. The small microchip embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder of ignition. If the car's computer does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't be able to start. The majority of cars manufactured since 1998 have this type of chip.

The problem is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain microchips that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to function.

Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is how to repair car key fob you do this. It can be more difficult than just cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop you're likely to be charged more than if you replace a standard mechanical key fob repair near me.

Another aspect is the model and make of your car. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used in order to program their vehicles, which will increase your cost.

Some prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device as well as the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Depending on your make and model, you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the dealer to install the new chip.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with a high-security blade. They were introduced in 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional key designs and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting in the event that keys that are not the correct ones are used.

While this technology can deter car keys repair thieves but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The key's unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, however thieves with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to get into your car. This is because traditional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable compared to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before fading out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively inexpensive to replace it by a professional locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it difficult to duplicate. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the proper steps to protect them.

Key Fobs

Although they're useful but key fobs can be difficult to use. They won't last forever and tend to stop working at the moment you most likely don't. You could end up in an embarrassing situation if your device fails particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. You might need to call for an locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a lot of money to get your car back on the road.

A variety of factors affect the price of a fob. These include the kind of key it comes with and its materials. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.

If your key fob repair near me fob will not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. These 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 apart the two halves of the key fob and insert the new one in the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning correctly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. While you can find 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 spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same at the same time.