Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago the loss of car keys was not a big deal. You could buy keys at the local auto parts store or locksmith.
As cars have adapted to adapt to technological advances, replacing lost keys is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that affect the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While those are the most common kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car keys will help people know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic types of car keys is a standard one, which has been around for a long time and is the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase from the hardware store and attach to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively inexpensive to copy, but could be costly to replace if they're lost or damaged.
More modern options include the transponder key, that has been used since 1995 and provides an extra secure option than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but they offer better protection against theft than conventional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade key which folds up into the form of a key fob when in use. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly 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 keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or was not working, you had to go to the local hardware store to purchase a new one. The process is a bit more complicated now. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on the type the key is replaced, it could cost you 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 replace at the hardware store for a few dollars. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used to lock the door or trunk locks, but not to start the car.
The transponder keys are the other type, and is the most frequently used. It has a transponder in the key head that transmits a coded signal your car's ignition system to verify that the key is valid. This system was added to vehicles in 1995 and can prevent them from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used.
To fix this kind of key the first step is to identify the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases it is due to either an issue with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this problem, the cap of the key and switch need to be removed with a tool and 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 issues such as key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your car. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. If the computer of the car 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 problem is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They're not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have a microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to function.
Connecting a diagnostic device to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is an additional aspect. learn the facts here now have their own equipment that has to be used in order to program their vehicles, which could add cost.
Some prefer to have an expert program their transponder keys. This is due to complex procedures, such as cutting wires to remove 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 vehicle. Depending on the make and model you might be in a position to save money by bringing your car directly to the car dealership to install the new chip.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that has high-security blade. They were introduced in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting in the event that the incorrect key is used.
This technology can hinder car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the right tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. However, laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel that can withstand a lot of wear and tear before fading out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is fairly inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they offer increased security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen in the event that you fail to take the necessary precautions.
remote key repairs may not be reliable even though they're practical. They aren't always reliable and are likely to cease working when you least expect them. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a tense situation, especially if you're packing your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long day. You might need to call an emergency locksmith or 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. These include the type of key it is made of and its materials. Brands are also an important factor, as they tend to 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 will not work or is working infrequently, a new battery may be the solution. These coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently break off the two halves of the key fob and insert the new one with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. While there are ways to do this yourself, it's best to let an expert handle it in order to prevent any accidental damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing a new key and fob even if you already have. However, if you've lost both your fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.