Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or worse losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could purchase keys at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
As cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is more complicated and costly. Read on to learn more about the factors that affect the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. While those are the most commonly used types of car keys however, there are other types that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people to know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
Keys that are standard are the most basic kind of car keys. They've been around for decades, and they remain the most sought-after choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys you can purchase from a hardware store and hook to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are cheap to copy, however they can be expensive to replace if they're lost or damaged.
More modern options include the transponder key that has been used since 1995 and provides security over traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the key handle and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, but they offer greater protection against theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They are more expensive than regular keys, but they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. They cost more than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or stopped working, you only needed to visit the local hardware store to purchase new keys. The process is a bit more complicated in the present. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road, and each one has a unique key. Based on the type of car it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. These keys were the ones you could buy from the hardware shop for a few cents. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used to lock the door locks or trunk locks, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most commonly used one is the transponder keys. It has a tiny transponder in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. This system was added to vehicles in 1995, and can stop them from starting when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to figure out the reason for its malfunction. In car key repair shop near me of cases the reason is due to a problem with the cap of the key or the key switch. To resolve this issue, the cap or switch will need to be removed carefully using a tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is crucial because it can help solve issues such as key chatter. This refers to keys that register multiple inputs when pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft security system. The small microchip embedded inside the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. If the computer in the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder it won't begin to turn on. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.
The issue is that the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain microchips that need to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to work.
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 simply cutting a blank from scratch, and since the tools aren't accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than when replacing a standard mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is an additional important factor. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars which can increase the cost.
Some prefer having a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device, and also the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have an edge that is high level of security. They were introduced in 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting if keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology can protect against car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade and design of the key is difficult to duplicate, but burglars can still use it with the right tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. However, laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel which can stand up to wear and wear for a long time before it becomes worn out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they provide increased security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it difficult to duplicate. car key repair cost are still at risk of being stolen or lost if you don't make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable, even though they are useful. They don't hold a charge for long, and they're likely to shut down when you aren't expecting to notice. You could end up in an embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. It's possible to call an locksmith or a tow truck and it could cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob may influence the cost. Brands also play a role, as they tend to be more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob will not function or functions intermittently, a simple replacement battery may be the solution. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost less than $10 and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new one in the same way as the old one.
It's up to your dealer change the program if your key fob has been damaged or is not functioning as it should. Although you may be able to do this on your own but it's better to have professionals handle the task to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to 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 keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.