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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing or, even worse, losing keys to your car was not an problem. You could buy keys at the local auto parts store or locksmith.

However, as automobiles have advanced to meet the demands of technology the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Read on to learn more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When we think of our car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car keys that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys will help people understand what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

Keys that are standard are the most basic type of car keys. They have been around for a long time, and remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase at a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for the cost of a small amount, but they are expensive to replace if lost or damaged.

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

Another alternative is the switchblade that folds down into a key fob when not in use. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they could be more expensive if the shank or handle of the key is damaged.





Additionally, there are the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These are more expensive than standard keys, and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when your car key was damaged or stopped working, you only needed to visit the local hardware store and purchase new keys. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are numerous kinds of cars on the road and each comes with an individual key. Based on the model 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. They were the keys you could buy from the hardware store for a few pennies. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the door locks or trunk locks but not for starting the car.

The other type of key, that is the most common one is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. This system was added to cars in 1995 and can prevent the ignition from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

The first step in fixing this kind of key is to identify what is causing the malfunction. Most of the time, the cause is due to either an issue with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this issue, the key cap and key switch must be removed carefully using tools, then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is crucial as it will help to eliminate issues like key chatter. This refers to keys which can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your car. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits signals to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder that controls the ignition. The car will not start if the computer does not get the correct response. This kind of chip is used in all cars built since 1998.

The problem is that they are more expensive to replace. They're not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have an electronic chip that must be programmed into the car's computer for them to work.

Connecting a diagnostic device to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is how you accomplish this. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a blank from scratch, and since these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop, you'll spend more than when replacing a standard mechanical key.

The make and model of your vehicle is another important factor. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars which can increase the cost.

Some people prefer that a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna, and using a scanning device and the assurance that comes with knowing that you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. how to repair car key fob could save money if you go directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys

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

This technology helps prevent car thefts, however it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, but anyone with the appropriate tools and equipment could still make use of it to gain access into your car. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that's easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, have the sidewinder cylinder lock, which is 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 fading out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to repair it by a locksmith.

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

Key Fobs

Even though they're convenient keys can be tricky. They won't last forever and tend to stop functioning when you least expect them. A malfunctioning device can put you in a difficult situation, particularly if you're packing your trunk with groceries or heading to work after an exhausting day. You may need to call for an locksmith or a tow truck and it can cost a lot 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 the materials it is made of. Brands are also an important factor 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 doesn't respond or doesn't work at all A simple battery replacement could fix the issue. These batteries are typically less than $10 and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts of the key fob apart and insert the new battery in the same way as the previous one.

You'll need your dealer to reset it if the key fob has been damaged or is no longer functioning as it should. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. You can save money by buying new keys and fobs if you already have one. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth it to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the exact same at the same time.