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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

Not so long ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys wasn't an issue. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.

As cars have adapted to accommodate technological advances replacement of keys that have been lost is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that impact the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, many think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car keys that can offer enhanced security. Knowing the distinctions between different kinds of car keys will help people determine what to anticipate when replacing or fixing the keys.

One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard key, that has been used for a long time and is the most popular choice for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase from a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Standard keys are relatively inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.

More modern options include the transponder key which has been in use since 1995 and is a more secure solution than traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become lost or damaged, but offer greater protection from theft than conventional keys.

Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold up into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are more expensive than normal keys, but they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

Additionally, there are the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when your car remote key repair shop near me key broke or stopped working, you only needed to visit the local hardware store to purchase an alternative. It's a little more complicated now. There are several types of vehicles in use and each one has its own key. Depending on the model it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest kind. They're the ones you used to be in a position to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not have a transponder in them and are used for locking the door or trunk locks, but not to start the car.

The transponder key is the other type, and is the most frequently used. It has a tiny transponder inside the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to verify the validity of the key. The system was introduced to vehicles in 1995 and can prevent them from being started if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

To fix this kind of key the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. Most of the time it is a problem with the cap of the key or the switch is the reason. To fix this, the key cap and switch need to be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the problem. Lubricating the key switch is essential as it can help eliminate issues such as key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The small microchip embedded inside the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition key cylinder. The car will not start if the computer does not receive the correct response. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.

The issue is that they're more expensive to replace. They're not just different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, key repair shop near me but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to function.

This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and entering a programming mode. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop, you're likely to be charged more than when replacing a standard mechanical key.

The make and model of your vehicle is an additional factor. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars and increase the cost.

Some prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, as well as the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. Depending on your make and model you might be saving money by bringing your car key repair cost directly to the car dealership for the installation of your new chip.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys have blades that have a high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting in the event that the incorrect key is used.

While this technology helps protect against car thieves but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the right tools and equipment can still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock that is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, come with an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.

The design of the key is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key breaks or wears out, it is relatively inexpensive to repair it by a locksmith.

While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer increased security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still at risk of being lost or stolen in the event that you fail to make the proper precautions.

Key Fobs

Although they're useful keys can be difficult to use. They don't hold a charge for long, and they're likely to stop functioning when you most likely won't notice it. You may find yourself in an embarrassing situation if your device fails, especially if you are taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. It's possible to need a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a significant amount to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key and the materials used in the fob could affect the cost. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Certain fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others require to be reprogrammed by a dealer.

If your key fob doesn't respond or is not working If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery could fix the issue. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one in the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll need where to repair car key remote get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to leave it to an expert to avoid accidental damage which could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and simply buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth the cost to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same time.