Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys was not a big deal. In fact, you could buy a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.
However, as automobiles have adapted to technological advancement and technology, replacing keys that have been lost has become more difficult and expensive. Find out more about the elements that influence the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When we think of our car keys, they usually 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 car keys can help people understand what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard key, which has been around for decades and is still the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can buy at a hardware store and hook to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively affordable to duplicate, but could be costly to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a new alternative that has been in use since 1995. They provide an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the key handle and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. Click That Link are more expensive to replace if lost or damaged, but provide greater security against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They are more expensive than normal keys, but they can be more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. They cost more than standard keys and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost your car key or it stopped working out of the blue, all you had to do was head to the local hardware store and obtain a replacement. It's a little more complicated today. There are a variety of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on the type that you are replacing, it could cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. These were the keys that you could replace at the hardware shop for a few cents. They do not contain a transponder within them and are intended for locking the door locks or trunk locks, but not to start the car.
The other kind of key, which is the most commonly used one is the transponder key. It has an internal transponder within the head that sends a coded signal to your car's ignition system to confirm that the key is valid. This system was installed in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It prevents the ignition from being started by an unauthorized key or a lost one.
The first step in fixing this kind of key is to identify what is causing the malfunction. In most cases, the cause is due to either an issue with the key cap or the key switch. To fix the issue, the cap or switch must be removed with an instrument. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because this can help to eliminate problems like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft security system. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer doesn't get the correct response. The majority of cars manufactured from 1998 include this type of chip.
Problem is, they're more expensive to replace. They're not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include an electronic chip that must be programmed into the car's computer in order to function.
This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering a programming mode. This process is more complicated than cutting a blank since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you may have to pay more than if were to replace a mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is another aspect. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used in order to program their vehicles, which will increase the cost.
Some people prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using scanners as well as the security that comes with knowing that you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Depending on your model and make you might be saving money by visiting the car dealership to install the new chip.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys come with an edge that is high level of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted to stop the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong keys are used.
This technology can hinder car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key are difficult to copy, but burglars can still use it with the right tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which can withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key breaks or wears out, it is relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you do not take the necessary steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are convenient. They aren't always reliable and often stop working when you most likely don't. You may find yourself in a compromising situation if your device fails particularly when you are loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. You may 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, such as the type of key it is made of and the materials it is made of. Brands also play a role as they can be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user while others need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob is unresponsive or doesn't work at all, a simple battery replacement could fix the issue. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently pry off the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation.
You'll need your dealer to reset it if the key fob has been damaged or is not working properly. While you can find ways to do this on your own, it's best to let a professional handle it to avoid any damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing an additional key and fob in the event that you already have one. If you've lost both fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.