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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

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


However, as vehicles have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that affect the total cost of car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are many more advanced types of car keys that can offer enhanced security. Knowing the distinctions between different kinds of car keys will help people determine what to expect when replacing or fixing the keys.

One of the most basic types of car keys is a standard key, that has been used for decades and is still the most commonly used option for newer cars. These are keys that you can purchase at a hardware store and hook to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively cheap to copy, however they could be costly to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.

Transponder keys are a new option that has been available since 1995. They offer security and are more secure than traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key, and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of a loss or damage, but they offer greater protection 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're more expensive than regular keys to replace, but they are more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. These are more expensive than standard keys and may require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store to get an alternative. The process is a bit more complicated now. There are many different types of cars on the road and each has a unique key. Based on the type of car, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest kind. They're the ones you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have a transponder and are used to secure the trunk or doors but not to start the car.

The other kind of key, which is the most common one is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. The system was put in cars starting in 1995. repair car keys prevents the ignition from being started by an unauthorized key or a lost one.

The first step in fixing this type of key is to pinpoint what is causing the malfunction. Most of the time the issue is with the key cap or key switch is the cause. To correct this, the key cap and switch need to be carefully removed using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to fix the problem. Lubricating the switch is crucial because it can help eliminate issues like key chatter. This is a reference to keys which register multiple inputs when they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car won't start if the computer can't receive the correct response. Most cars produced in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.

The problem is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have an electronic chip that must be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to function.

This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. It is more complicated than simply cutting a brand blank from scratch, and since these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than if you replace a standard mechanical key.

Another aspect 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 the cost.

repair car keys prefer to have an expert do the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and utilizing scanners and the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Depending on your make and model you may be saving money by bringing your car directly to the car dealership for the installation of the new chip.

Keys Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys feature blades that have a high level of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s, and are used to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional key designs and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used.

While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, however thieves with the right tools and equipment can still use it to get into your car. This is because conventional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and is able to endure wear and wear for a long time before it becomes worn out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.

While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen in the event that you fail to take the necessary precautions.

Key Fobs

Key fobs are not always reliable even though they're practical. They won't last forever and tend to stop working at the moment you most likely don't. You could find yourself in a compromising situation if the fob fails particularly when you are taking your trunk full of groceries or going to work after a tiring day. You might need to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck, and it may cost you a considerable amount 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. Brands also play a role in that they can be more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.

If your key fob is unresponsive or doesn't work at all, a simple battery replacement could fix the issue. These batteries are typically $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores or big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pull the two parts of the key fob and insert the new battery in the same way as the previous one.

If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's best to let it be done by an expert to avoid accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing new keys and fobs even if you already have. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth it to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the same time.

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