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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys weren't an issue. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts store or your local locksmith.

However, as cars have adapted to technological advancement the process of replacing keys has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the variables that influence the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their mobile car key repair keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. While those are the most popular kinds of keys for cars, there are many other kinds that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people understand what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.

Keys that are standard are the simplest type of car key. They've been in use for many years, and remain the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can buy at an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Standard keys can be copied for an affordable price however, they can be expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

Modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been used since 1995 and offers an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but provide greater security against theft than traditional keys.

Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are more expensive than normal keys, however they may cost more if the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.

There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store and obtain an alternative. The process is a bit more complicated in the present. There are a variety of cars available and each comes with a unique key. Depending on its type, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.

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

The transponder key is a different type, and is the most frequently used. The key is equipped with an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle key repairs to confirm that the key is in fact valid. This system was introduced in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It protects them from being started with an unauthorised key or lost one.

The first step to fix this kind of key is to identify what is causing the malfunction. Most of the time the reason is due to an issue with the cap on the Key lock repair near Me or the broken key repair near me switch. To fix the problem, the key cap or key switch must be removed carefully using the appropriate tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are a vital component of the anti-theft system in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition piston. If the car's computer doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder it won't start. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.

The issue is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They also have an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a unique microchip that has to be programmed into your car's computer to function properly.

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

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

Some prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Depending on your model and make, you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the dealer for the installation of the new chip.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys have an edge that is high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started if keys that aren't the right ones are used.

This technology does hinder car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key are hard to duplicate, but a burglar can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your vehicle. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable compared to 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. If the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.

While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the necessary steps to protect them.

Key Fobs

Although they're useful, key fobs can be finicky. They won't last forever and are likely to cease functioning when you most likely don't. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a difficult situation, especially when you're loading your trunk with groceries or leaving for work after a long day. It's possible where to repair car key remote call for locksmith services or a tow truck and it can cost you a lot of money to get your car back on the road.

The type of key and the materials used in the fob can influence the cost. It also depends on the manufacturer which is usually more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user, while others require to be programmed by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob does not function or functions intermittently, a simple replacement battery may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $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 the key fob key repair and insert the new one with the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. While there are ways to do this yourself, it's best to have an expert handle it in order to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's worth the cost to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a new key at the exact same time.