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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

Not so long ago the loss of car keys wasn't an issue. You could buy keys at the local auto parts store or locksmith.

However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys has become more difficult and costly. Find out more about the factors that influence the total cost of car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they might think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While these are the most popular types of car keys but there are a variety of types that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car key repairs keys can help people to know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard one, that has been in use for a long time and is the most commonly used option for newer cars. These are keys that you can purchase from an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly inexpensive to copy, but could be costly to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.

Transponder keys are a modern alternative that has been in use since 1995. They offer a more secure alternative to traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key, and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of damage or loss, but they provide greater protection against theft than conventional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade, which folds into the form of a key fob when in use. They cost more than standard keys to replace, but they are more expensive if the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.

There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. They cost more than standard keys and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was visit your local hardware store to find a replacement. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are numerous kinds of cars on the road and each has a unique key. Depending on the type, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest type. These are the ones that you were able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or doors but not to start the car.

The other kind of key, which is the most commonly used utilized is the transponder keys. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder in the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. This system was added to cars in 1995, and can stop them from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

To fix this type of key the first step is to determine what's causing the malfunction. In most cases it is a problem with the cap of the key or the switch is the reason. To fix the issue, the key cap or key switch will need to be removed with an instrument. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as it can help eliminate problems like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an essential part of the anti-theft system in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits signals to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer doesn't get the right response. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.

The issue is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They also have a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work effectively.

This process is done by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to your car's computer and entering the programming mode. It is more complicated than just cutting a blank from scratch, and since these devices are not readily accessible in every locksmith shop you'll pay more for this service than if you replace a standard mechanical key.

Another factor is the make and model of your car remote key repair. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used to program their vehicles, which could add cost.

Some prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures involved, which include cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using scanners as well as the security that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys feature a blade with a high degree of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s and work to prevent vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted, preventing the vehicle from being started when keys that are not the correct ones are used.

While this technology can protect against car keys repairs near me thieves however, it isn't able to stop them completely. The unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, however a burglar with the right tools and equipment can still make use of it to gain access into your car. This is because traditional keys use a standard Lock Key Repair Near Me cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.

The key's design is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and can withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. But, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock make it difficult to duplicate. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the proper precautions to keep them safe.

Key Fobs

Key fobs may not be reliable even though they're convenient. They don't hold a charge for a long time, and they are likely to cease functioning at the moment you aren't expecting it. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a tense situation, particularly if you're loading your car with groceries or leaving for work after an extended day. You may need to call for an locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost a lot to get your car back on the road.

Many factors influence the cost of a fob, including the type of key it is made of and the materials it is made of. It is also dependent on the brand which is usually more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others require to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob isn't responding or intermittently works, a simple battery replacement may be the solution. These coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pull the two parts of the key fob and insert the new battery in the same way that the old one had.

If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed with the help of 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 expensive repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth it to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a new key at the exact same at the same time.