Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or, even worse, losing your car keys was not an problem. You could buy an extra key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
As cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that influence the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they usually imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. While those are the most commonly used types of car keys but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and have enhanced security features. Understanding car key repairs near me between various types of keys for cars will help people determine what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing keys.
Standard keys are the simplest type of car key. They've been in use for decades, and they are still the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase at a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys of the standard type are cheap to copy, however they can be expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder key which has been used since 1995 and offers security over traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the key handle and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but they offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly when the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past the past, if your car's key broke or stopped working, you only had to visit the local hardware store to get new keys. Today things are more complicated. There are many kinds of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the type of car it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. These keys were the ones you could replace at the hardware shop for a few cents. They don't have transponders and are used to lock the trunk or doors, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, which is the most popular one is the transponder key. It has a transponder in the key head that transmits a coded signal to your car's ignition system to verify that the key is valid. This feature was added to vehicles in 1995 and prevents them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to identify the reason for its malfunction. In most cases it is a problem with the cap of the key or the switch is the culprit. To fix this the key cap and key switch must be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as it can help eliminate problems like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. The car won't start if the computer can't get the correct response. This type of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
The issue is that the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to work.
This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the car's computer and then entering the programming mode. This process can be more complex than cutting a blank, because these devices aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another consideration is the model and make of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars which can increase the cost.
Some prefer having a professional program their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device, and also the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. car key repairs may be able save money if you go directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with high-security blade. They came on the scene in the 1990s and work to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional key designs and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted, preventing the vehicle from starting if the wrong keys are used.
This technology does deter car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, however anyone with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to get into your car. This is because traditional keys have an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have the sidewinder cylinder lock, which is more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel and can withstand lots of wear and tear before fading out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock makes it harder to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Even though they're convenient but key fobs can be tricky. They don't last forever and are likely to cease working at the moment you least expect them. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in a tense situation, especially if you're packing your trunk with food items or heading off to work after an exhausting day. You may need to contact an locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost a lot to get your car back on the road.
The type of key and the materials used in the fob can affect the cost. car key fob repair depends on the manufacturer that is more expensive. Certain 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 is not working A simple battery replacement might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries are available 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, then insert the new one with the same orientation.
It is necessary for your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly. While there are ways to do this on your own, it's best to let an expert handle it in order to avoid any damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing new keys and fobs in the event that you already have one. If, however, you've lost both your keys and fob it's worth the expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.