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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

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

However, as automobiles have advanced to meet the demands of technology, replacing lost keys has become more difficult and expensive. Find out more about the elements that impact the cost of a replacement car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they usually imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys can help people know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars 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 you can purchase from a hardware store and hook to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for an affordable price, but they are expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

More modern options include the transponder keys, which has been used since 1995 and provides security over traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key, and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but offer better protection against theft than conventional keys.

Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but could be more expensive if the shank or handle of the key has been damaged.

There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. They cost more than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was head to the local hardware store and get an alternative. Today, things are a little more complicated. There are a variety of cars available, and each one has a unique key. Depending on its type it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. These keys were the ones could be replaced at a hardware shop for a few cents. They do not come with a transponder and are used to secure the trunk or doors but not to start the car remote key repair shop near me.

The transponder keys are the other type, and is the most frequently used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your car to verify the validity of the key. This system was installed in cars starting in 1995. It protects the ignition key repair near me from being started by an unauthorized key or a lost one.

The first step to fix this type of key is to determine what's causing the issue. Most of the time it is due to either an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this the key cap and the key switch should be removed with tools, then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch is crucial as it will help to eliminate issues like key chatter. This is a reference to keys which allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition key cylinder. The car will not start if the computer can't receive the correct response. This kind of chip is found in most cars manufactured since 1998.

The problem is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They also have an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to work correctly.

This process is done by connecting a diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and then entering the programming mode. This process can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and, because these devices aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.

The model and make of your vehicle is a different factor. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.

Some people prefer to have professionals handle the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using a scanning device and the security that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You may be able save money if you go directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed.

Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They first came to the market in the 1990s and work to combat vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate, and they have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted, preventing the vehicle from being started when keys that are not the correct ones are used.

While this technology helps protect against car key repair cost thieves but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade and design of the key is difficult to duplicate, however burglars can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because conventional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable compared to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can withstand wear and tear for a long period before it wears out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is fairly inexpensive to repair car key it by a locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the proper security measures to ensure their safety.

Key Fobs

Key fobs may not be reliable, even though they are convenient. They don't last forever, and they tend to cease functioning when you most likely won't notice it. You could find yourself in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. You may need to call for an locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob could influence the cost. Brands are also a factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others require to be reprogrammed by a dealer.

If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of the key fob, then 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 with the help of a dealer. Although you may be able to do this yourself but it's better to let a professional handle it to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying an additional key and fob in the event that you already have one. However, if you've lost both 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.