Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

Not so long ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys was not a big deal. You could buy an extra key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.

Since cars have been upgraded to keep up with technological advancements, replacing lost keys is becoming more difficult and costly. Read on to learn more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think about their car keys, many think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are many more advanced types of car keys that offer greater security. Knowing the distinctions between different types of keys for cars can help people know what to expect when it comes to replacing or repair car keys them.

Standard keys are the most basic kind of car keys. They have been around for many years, and remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are the keys that you can buy at a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Standard keys can be copied at the cost of a small amount however, they can be expensive to replace when lost or damaged.

Transponder keys are an innovative alternative that has been in use since 1995. They offer a more secure alternative to 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 in the event that they become damaged or lost, but they offer greater protection from theft than conventional keys.

Another option is the switchblade key which folds up into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They're more expensive than standard keys to replace, but they are more expensive if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

Additionally, there are smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when you lost your car key or it stopped working out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was go to the local hardware store and obtain a replacement. Today, things are a little more complicated. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each has a different key. Based on the model the key is replaced, it could cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys, are the most basic kind. They were the keys you could replace at the hardware shop for a few cents. They do not have a transponder and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.

The transponder key is a different type one, and is the most commonly used. This key has a small transponder inside the head of the key which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your mobile car key repair to verify the authenticity of the key. The system was put in vehicles as early as 1995. It prevents them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.

The first step to fix this type of mobile key repair is to identify what's causing the issue. In the majority of cases, a problem with either the cap on the key or switch is the cause. To resolve this issue, the cap or key switch will need to be removed with the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is crucial as it will help to remove issues such as key chatter. This is a reference to keys that allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your car. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits signals to the antenna ring around the cylinder of ignition. 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 makes them more expensive to replace. In addition to having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that must be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function effectively.

This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and then entering the programming mode. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop you'll be charged more than when replacing a standard mechanical key.

The make and model of your vehicle is a different important factor. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used in order to program their vehicles, which will increase your cost.

Some prefer to have a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device and also the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. You may be able save money if you go directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys are a type of car key with a high-security blade. They were first introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, preventing the vehicle from starting when the wrong key is used.

While this technology can deter car thieves but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to gain entry into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that is easy for burglars to pick. However, laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more resistant to picking.

The design of the key is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel and is able to stand up to wear and tear for a long period before it wears out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.

While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer increased security. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock makes it harder to duplicate. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary security measures to ensure their safety.

Key Fobs

Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are convenient. They can't keep a charge for a long time, and they are likely to shut down at the moment you most likely won't notice it. You could end up in a compromising situation if your device fails in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a exhausting day. It's possible to need a locksmith or tow truck and it could cost a lot of money to get your car back on the road.

A variety of factors affect the price of a fob, such as the type of key repair (relevant web site) it contains and the materials used. It is also dependent on the brand that is more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others require to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a simple replacement battery could be the answer. These batteries are typically $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores or big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the previous one.

It is necessary for your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob is damaged or is no longer functioning properly. While there are ways to do this yourself but it's better to let an expert handle it in order to prevent any accidental damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can skip this step and purchase a replacement to save money. If, however, you've lost both 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.