Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

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

However, as cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances and technology, replacing keys that have been lost is becoming more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the factors that affect the total cost of car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While these are the most common types of car keys but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car key fob repair keys can help people know what to expect when replacing or repair keys.

One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard key, that has been in use for decades and remains the most common option for the latest cars. These are keys that you can purchase from an establishment that sells hardware and attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied at the cost of a small amount, but they are expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

Modern alternatives include the transponder key, that has been used since 1995 and is security over traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of a loss or damage, however they provide greater protection against theft than standard keys.

Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold up into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.

Lastly, there are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. They cost more than standard keys and could require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was go to your local hardware store to obtain an alternative. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. There are many different types of vehicles on the road and each comes with distinct keys. Depending on the model it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. They were the keys could be replaced at a hardware shop for a few cents. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the trunk or door locks, but not to start the car.

The other type of key, that is the most common one, is the transponder key. This key has a transponder in the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify that the key is legitimate. This system was introduced in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops 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 it is due to either an issue with the cap of the key or the automotive key repair switch. To correct this the key cap and the key switch should be removed carefully using tools, then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is important since it can eliminate issues like key chatter. This refers to keys that can register multiple inputs when they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car keys repairs near me. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder of ignition. The car key repair shop near me will not start if the computer can't receive the correct response. This type of chip is found in most cars manufactured from 1998 onwards.

Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. Apart from having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a special microchip that needs to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to function correctly.

Connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. This process can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.

The make and model of your vehicle is another important factor. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which could increase the cost.

Some prefer having an expert program their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, which include cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing scanners and the security that comes from knowing you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. Depending on your make and model you may be able to save money by going directly to the dealer to install your new chip.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys are a form of car key repair cost (More suggestions) key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They were introduced in the 1990s, and are used to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting when the wrong key is used.

This technology helps deter car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The key's unique blade and shape are difficult to duplicate, however thieves with the right tools and equipment can still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more resistant to picking.

The key is also more durable to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that can withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. But, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by an experienced locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock cylinder makes it harder 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 repair shop Fobs

Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are practical. They can't keep a charge for long, and they're likely to cease functioning at the moment you least expect it. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're putting in your car with groceries or heading to work after a long day. You might need to call for a locksmith or a tow truck and it could cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key used and the materials used in the fob can affect the cost. Brands also play a role, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others must be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob doesn't respond or doesn't work at all A simple battery replacement may be the solution. 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 break off the two halves of your key fob, then insert the new one in the same orientation.

It's up to your dealer reprogramme it if your key fob has been damaged or isn't working properly. You can do this yourself, but it's better to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can bypass this step and buy a replacement to save money. However, if you've lost both your keys and fob it's worth the cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.