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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

Not so long ago misplacing or even 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 advanced to meet the demands of technology, replacing lost keys has become more difficult and costly. Learn more about the factors that influence the overall cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When we think of our car keys, they often think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. While these are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of types that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the differences between different types of keys for cars can help people know what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing them.

One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard key, that has been in use for decades and remains the most common option for the latest cars. These are keys that you can buy at the hardware store and attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace if they're lost or damaged.


Transponder keys are a modern option that has been available since 1995. They offer security and are more secure than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, however they provide greater protection against theft than traditional keys.

Switchblade keys are another option. They fold up into an accessory keyfob when not used. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they could be more expensive in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.

Lastly, there are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. They cost more than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store to obtain a replacement. It's a little more complicated today. There are a variety of cars on the road and each comes with distinct keys. Depending on the type that you are replacing, it could cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. These keys were the ones you could replace at the hardware store for a few cents. They don't have an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but they are not used to start the car.

The transponder key is the other type, and is the most frequently used. It has a tiny transponder inside the head of the key which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. This system was introduced in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It protects them from being started with an unauthorised key or a lost one.

The first step in fixing this kind of key is to pinpoint what's causing the issue. In car remote key repair , the cause is due to either a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this issue the key cap and switch need to be carefully removed using tools, then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because it will help in removing problems like key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits a signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder that controls the ignition. If the car's computer does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't be able to start. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.

The issue is that they are more expensive to replace. They are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain microchips that need to be programmed into the car's computer for them to work.

This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and entering a programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and due to the fact that these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop you'll spend more than when replacing a basic mechanical key.

The model and make of your vehicle is a different aspect. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.

Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device as well as the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car. You could save money by going directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys have blades that have a high degree of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started in the event that keys that aren't the right ones are used.

While this technology helps deter car thieves but it's not able to stop them completely. The unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, however thieves 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. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable compared to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and is able to stand up to wear and wear for a long time before it wears out. But, if car keys repair wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.

While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer increased security. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock cylinder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still at risk of being lost or stolen if you don't take the appropriate precautions.

Key Fobs

Key fobs aren't always reliable even though they're convenient. They don't last forever and tend to stop functioning when you most likely don't. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in an embarrassing situation, particularly if you're loading your car with food items or heading off to work after a long day. You may have to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck, and it may cost you a considerable amount to get your vehicle 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 used. It also depends on the manufacturer, which typically costs more. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others require to be programmed by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob is unresponsive or intermittently works If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently break apart the two halves of your key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or no longer works correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's better to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and purchase a replacement to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same at the same time.

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