Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't too long ago that losing or worse, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could buy a spare key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys has become more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the factors that influence the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. While those are the most commonly used types of car keys however, there are other kinds that are more sophisticated and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to anticipate when replacing or fixing them.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard key, that has been in use for a long time and is the most common option for newer cars. These are the keys you can purchase at an establishment that sells hardware and connect to your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly affordable to duplicate, but could cost a lot to replace when they're damaged or lost.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, that has been used 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 inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade key, which folds into the form of a key fob when in use. They're more expensive than regular keys, but they may cost more if the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
Lastly, there are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past the past, if your car's key broke or was not working, you had to go to the local hardware store to get new keys. The process is a bit more complicated today. There are many different types of cars available and each comes with an individual key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. They're the ones you were in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not come with transponders and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, which is the most popular utilized is the transponder keys. This key has a small transponder located in the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was introduced to automobiles in 1995 and prevents them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this type of key the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. Most of the time it is due to either a problem with the key cap or the key switch. To resolve this problem, the key cap or the key switch must be removed with care using the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is crucial as it will help to remove issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys which can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft security system. The small microchip embedded inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition piston. The car won't start if the computer can't get the right response. This kind of chip can be used in all cars built since 1998.
The issue is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them 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 computer of the vehicle in order to function.
This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the car's computer and entering a programming mode. It's more complicated than just cutting a new blank, and because these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop, you'll be charged more than when replacing a standard mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of your car. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used to program their vehicles, which can increase your cost.
Some people prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures, such as 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 will be working on your car. Depending on the make and model, you may be able to save money by bringing your car directly to the car dealership for the installation of your new chip.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key is used.
While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them entirely. The unique blade and design of the key are hard to duplicate, however a burglar can still use 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 much more difficult to pick.
The key's design is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and can withstand wear and tear for a long period before it wears out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the proper steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable even though they're practical. They don't hold a charge for long, and they're likely to cease functioning when you most likely won't notice it. You could end up in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions in the middle of taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. You may have to call a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a considerable amount 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 its materials. Brands are also a factor in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob does not function or functions intermittently, a simple replacement battery could be the answer. Click That Link -shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob apart and insert the new battery with the same orientation as the previous one.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. While you can find ways to do this yourself but it's better to have professionals handle the task to prevent 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 replacement to save money. If, however, you've lost both your fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.