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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys was not an issue. You could purchase a spare key at the local auto parts store or locksmith.

However, as automobiles have advanced to meet the demands of technology, replacing lost keys is becoming more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the elements that affect the cost of a replacement car key.

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 common types of car keys however, there are other kinds that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people understand what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard one, that has been in use for decades and remains the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys that you can buy at an hardware store and then connect to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are cheap to copy, however they could be costly to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.

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

Another alternative is the switchblade, which folds into the form of a key fob when in use. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly when the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.

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

Mechanical Keys

In the past when your car keys repair key broke or stopped working, you only needed to visit the local hardware store to purchase new keys. It's a little more complicated in the present. There are numerous kinds of cars on the road and each comes with an individual key. Depending on the type that you are replacing, it could cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic kind. They are the keys that you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not come with transponders and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but they are not used to start the car.

The transponder keys are the other type that is frequently used. It has a tiny transponder in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system in your car key repair service to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was added to vehicles in 1995 and can prevent them from being started if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

The first step in fixing this type of key is to identify what's causing the issue. In most cases, a problem with either the cap on the key or switch is the culprit. To resolve this issue, the key cap or key switch will need to be removed with an instrument. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is essential as it can help eliminate issues like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the key transmits signals 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. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made from 1998 onwards.

Problem is, they're 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 work properly.

This process is done by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to your car's computer and then entering a programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and due to the fact that these devices are not readily accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to pay more for this service than when replacing a basic mechanical key.

The make and model of your vehicle is another important factor. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars, which increases your cost.

Some prefer to have an expert program their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, and also the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your Car Key repair. Depending on the model and make you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the car dealership for the installation of your new chip.

Keys Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys have an edge that is high level of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s and work to prevent vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional key designs and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted to stop the vehicle from being started in the event that keys that aren't the right ones are used.

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

The design of the key is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can withstand lots of wear and tear before fading out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's fairly inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.

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

Key Fobs

Even though they're convenient keys can be difficult to use. They won't last forever and tend to stop working when you most likely don't. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a difficult situation, especially when you're putting in your trunk full of groceries or leaving for work after an exhausting day. It's possible to need a locksmith or a tow truck, and it may cost a lot of money to get your car back on the road.

Many factors influence the cost of a fob, such as the type of key it is made of and its materials. Brands are also an important factor in that they can 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 is unresponsive or doesn't work at all If your key fob repair fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pull the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery in the same way that the old one had.

It's up to your dealer change the program if your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning as it should. While you can find ways to do this yourself but it's better to let professionals handle the task to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying a new key and fob even if you already have. If 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 at the same time.