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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or, even worse losing keys to your car was not a big problem. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.

However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is becoming more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the variables that impact the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they may imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While these are the most common types of car keys, there are many other types that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between different types of keys for cars can help people know what to anticipate 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 popular choice for the latest cars. These are the keys that you can purchase from an hardware store and then connect to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for a relatively low cost, but they are expensive to replace when lost or damaged.

Modern alternatives include the transponder key that has been used since 1995 and offers security over traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key, and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of damage or loss, but they offer greater protection against theft than traditional keys.

Another option is the switchblade key that folds down into the form of a key fob when in use. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly when 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 starts. These are more expensive than standard keys, and may require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if your car key was damaged or stopped working, you had to go to the local hardware store to get an alternative. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on its type it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys, are the most basic kind. They're the ones you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used to lock the door locks or trunk locks but not for starting the car.

The transponder keys are the other type that is commonly used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was introduced in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It stops them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.

To fix this type of key the first step is to identify the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases the reason is due to an issue with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this issue, the key cap or switch will need to be removed with care using the appropriate tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is important as it will help to eliminate issues like key chatter. This is a reference to keys that can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The microchip inside the plastic head of the key transmits signals to the antenna ring that surrounds the cylinder that controls the ignition. The car will not start if the computer doesn't get the right response. Most cars built from 1998 include this type of chip.

The issue is, the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. Apart from having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that needs to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work properly.

This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the car's computer and then entering the programming mode. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you may pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.

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

Some people prefer to have professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and utilizing scanning devices and the security that comes with knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Depending on your model and make, you may be able to save money by bringing your car directly to the dealer for the installation of the new chip.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys have an edge that is high degree of security. They came on the scene in the 1990s, and are used to combat vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started when keys that aren't the right ones are used.

While this technology helps stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them from doing so completely. The key's unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the right tools and equipment can still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more resistant to picking.

The key is also more durable compared to conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.

While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the proper steps to protect them.

Key Fobs

Although they're useful but key fobs can be tricky. They don't last for long, and they're likely to shut down at the moment you aren't expecting to notice. A malfunctioning device can put you in a difficult situation, especially if you're loading your car with food items or heading off to work after a long day. You may have to call a locksmith or a tow truck and it could cost a lot of money to get your car back on the road.

There are many factors that affect the price of a fob, including the kind of key it comes with and the materials it is made of. key repair service depends on the manufacturer, which typically costs more. Some fobs are programmed by the user while others require to be programmed by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob will not work or works intermittently, a simple replacement battery might be the solution. These coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts of the key fob and then insert the new one with the same orientation as the old one.

You'll need your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob has been damaged or is no longer functioning as it should. You can do this yourself, but it's best to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could bypass this step and buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the exact same at the same time.