Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

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

Since cars have been upgraded to adapt to technological advances, replacing lost keys is more difficult and expensive. Read on to learn more about the factors that affect the total cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their emergency car key repair keys, they may think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car key fob repairs keys that can provide greater security. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to anticipate when replacing or repair the keys.

Standard keys are the most basic type of car keys. They've been around for decades, and they are still the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can purchase at a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at the cost of a small amount however they can be costly to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

Transponder keys are a new option that has been available since 1995. They provide security and are more secure than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the mobile key repair Near Me, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if they are lost or damaged, but provide greater security against theft than traditional keys.

Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold down into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They're more expensive than regular keys to replace, but they are more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. They are more expensive than standard keys and could require a locksmith's special tools to repair car key remote.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost your car key or it stopped working out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was visit the local hardware store and get a replacement. It's a little more complicated in the present. There are many kinds of vehicles on the market and each has a different key. Depending on its type it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic kind. They were the keys you could buy from the hardware store for a few pennies. They do not have a transponder in them and are used to lock the door or trunk locks but not for starting the car.

The other type of key, that is the most popular one, is the transponder key. The key is equipped with an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal to your car's ignition system to confirm that the key is legitimate. This system was installed in vehicles as early as 1995. It prevents the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or lost one.

To fix this kind of key the first step is to figure out the reason for its malfunction. Most of the time the reason is due to either an issue with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this the key cap and switch need to be removed with a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is essential as it will help to eliminate issues like key chatter. This refers to keys that can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits signals to the antenna ring that surrounds the cylinder of ignition. The car won't start if the computer can't get the right response. This kind of chip can be present in the majority of cars made since 1998.

The problem is, the same factor 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 contain a unique microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work effectively.

Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer, and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. It is more complicated than just cutting a new blank, and because these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop, you're likely to spend more than if you replace the basic mechanical key.

Another aspect is the model and make of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars, which increases your cost.

Some prefer having professional programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the intricate procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using scanners and the assurance that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. Depending on the make and model, you may be in a position to save money by visiting the car dealership to install your new chip.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with high-security blade. They were first introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used.

This technology can deter car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to copy, but thieves can still make use of it with the proper tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that's easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, come with an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.

The design of the key is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and can withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key does wear out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the necessary security measures to ensure their safety.

Key Fobs

Even though they're convenient but key fobs can be finicky. They won't last forever and are likely to cease working when you least expect them. A malfunctioning device can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're putting in your trunk full of food items or heading off to work after an extended day. It's possible to contact a locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key used and the materials used in the fob can affect the price. It is also dependent on the brand that is more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user while others require to be programmed by a dealer.

If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. The coin-shaped batteries can be found 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.

If your key fob is damaged or no longer works correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. Although you may be able to do this on your own, it's best to let professionals handle the task to avoid any 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. If, however, you've lost both your keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.