Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that losing or, even worse, losing your car keys was not a big problem. You could purchase 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 impact the cost of a replacement 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. There are a variety of more sophisticated kinds of keys for cars that can offer enhanced security. Understanding car keys repairs between various types of keys for cars can help people anticipate what to expect when replacing or repairing the keys.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard key, which has been around for a long time and is the most commonly used option for the latest cars. These are the keys that you can buy at an hardware store and then connect to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied for a relatively low cost however, they can be expensive to replace when lost or damaged.
More modern options include the transponder keys, that has been used since 1995 and provides a more secure solution than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the key handle and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but provide greater security against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are more expensive than standard keys, but they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. These are more expensive than standard keys and may require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past the past, if your car's key broke or was not working, you had to go to the local hardware store and purchase an alternative. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each one has its own key. Depending on the type that you are replacing, it could cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest type. These keys were the ones could be replaced at a hardware store for a few pennies. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the door or trunk locks, but not to start the car.
The other kind of key, which is the most popular in use is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the validity of the key. The system was put in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops the ignition from being started using an unauthorized key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key the first step is to identify the reason for its malfunction. In most cases it is a problem with the key cap or key switch is the reason. To fix this, the key cap and the key switch should be removed with an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the issue. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your vehicle. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits signals to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder of ignition. The car will not start if the computer doesn't receive the correct response. Most cars produced in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The problem is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. In addition to having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that needs to be programmed into your car's computer to function correctly.
This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. This process is more complicated than cutting a blank since these tools aren't widely 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 an additional important factor. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars, which increases your cost.
Some people prefer that 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 as well as the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. Depending on the model and make, you may be in a position to save money by bringing your car directly to the car dealership to install the new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys come with blades that have a high degree of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted to stop the vehicle from being started if keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology works to deter car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them entirely. The key's unique blade and design is difficult to duplicate, however anyone with the appropriate tools and equipment could still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which can withstand lots of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's affordable to repair it by a locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock make it more difficult to duplicate. However, they're susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions to keep them safe.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful, key fobs can be finicky. They don't last forever, and they tend to shut down when you aren't expecting it. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in an embarrassing situation, particularly if you're packing your trunk with food items or heading off to work after an extended day. You might need to call a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a considerable amount to get your car back on the road.
The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob can affect the price. Brands are also an important factor in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others need to be programmed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob is unresponsive or doesn't work at all A simple battery replacement may be the solution. These batteries are typically less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores, big box retailers, and online. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of your key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation.
You'll need your dealer to reset it if the key fob is damaged or is no longer working properly. Although you may be able to do this yourself however, it's best to have professionals handle the task to prevent any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can skip this step and simply buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a new key at the same time.