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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing or, even worse losing your car keys wasn't an problem. You could buy a spare key at the local auto parts store or locksmith.

As cars have adapted to accommodate technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is becoming more difficult and costly. Find out more about the elements that influence the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they may think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced types of car keys that can provide greater security. Knowing the distinctions between different types of keys for cars can help people know what to expect when replacing or repairing the keys.

One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard one, that has been used for a long time and is the most common option for newer cars. These are the keys that you can purchase at a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Standard keys can be copied at an affordable price however they can be costly to replace when lost or damaged.

More modern options include the transponder key which has been in use since 1995 and is security over traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in 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 loss or damage, however they offer greater protection against theft than standard keys.

Switchblade keys are another option. They fold up into an accessory keyfob when not used. They're more expensive than standard keys, but they may cost more when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.

Additionally, there are smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past the past, if your car's key broke or stopped working, you had to visit the local hardware store and purchase a new one. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each one has its own key. Depending on the type the key is replaced, it could cost more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. These keys were the ones you could buy from the hardware store for a few dollars. They don't have a transponder inside them and are intended for locking the Door Key repair near me locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.

The other type of key, that is the most commonly used in use is the transponder key. This key has a small transponder inside the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key repair shop. The system was introduced to vehicles in 1995 and prevents the ignition from starting when a lost or stolen key fob repair near me is used.

The first step to fix this type of key is to identify the cause of the problem. In the majority of cases the issue is with the cap on the key or switch is the culprit. To resolve this issue, the cap or switch will need to be removed with care using the appropriate tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as it can help eliminate issues such as key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also known as "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 that surrounds the ignition piston. If the car's computer does not receive the correct response from the transponder it won't start. This type of chip is found in most cars manufactured since 1998.

The problem is that they're more expensive to replace. They are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain an electronic chip that must be programmed into the vehicle's computer for them to function.

Connecting a diagnostic tool with your car's computer, and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. This procedure can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and, because these devices aren't available in all locksmith shops, you might have to pay more than if were to replace the mechanical key.

Another consideration is the model and make of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.

Some prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder key. It is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, and the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional is working on your vehicle. You may be able save money by going directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys feature an edge that is high level of security. They came on the scene in the 1990s and work to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting if the wrong key is used.

This technology can hinder car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to copy, but a burglar can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys have an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. But laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more resistant to picking.

The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can withstand lots of wear and tear before wearing out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.

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

Key Fobs

While they're handy, key repair service fobs can be tricky. They don't last forever, and they tend to shut down at the moment you most likely won't notice it. You could find yourself in a embarrassing situation if the fob fails, especially if you are taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a exhausting day. You might need to contact a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key repair near me used and the materials used in the fob may affect the cost. It also depends on the manufacturer that is more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others need to be programmed by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost less than $10 and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new battery in the same way that the old one had.

You'll need your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning as it should. Although you may be able to do this on your own however, it's best to let professionals handle the task to avoid any accidental damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying new keys and fobs if you already have one. However, if you've lost both your keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.