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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

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

As cars have evolved to adapt to technological advances, replacing lost keys is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that influence the total cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they often think of a simple metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. While those are the most popular kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more sophisticated and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people understand what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

Standard keys are the most basic kind of car key. They've been around for a long time, and are still the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are keys that you can purchase at a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly inexpensive to copy, but can be expensive to replace when they're damaged or lost.

Transponder keys are a new option that has been available since 1995. They are security and are more secure than traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they become lost or damaged, but provide greater security against theft than conventional keys.

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

Lastly, there are also the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store and get a replacement. The process is a bit more complicated today. There are several types of cars in circulation and each has a different key. Depending on the type that you are replacing, it could cost more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys, are the most basic type. These are the ones that you were able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not have a transponder in them and are used for locking the door or trunk locks but not for starting the car key repair cost - updated blog post -.

The transponder keys are the other type one, and is the most commonly used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system in your car keys repairs to verify the validity of the key. This system was introduced in cars starting in 1995. It protects the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or lost one.

To fix this kind of key the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. Most of the time the reason is due to either an issue with the key cap or the key switch. To fix this problem, the key cap or key switch must be removed with the appropriate tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as this can help to 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 microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits a signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder that controls the ignition. If the computer of the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder it won't be able to start. This kind of chip can be used in all cars built from 1998 onwards.

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 distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into your car's computer to function properly.

Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer, and then entering the programming mode is how you do this. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than with the replacement of the basic mechanical key.

The make and model of your vehicle is an additional factor. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars which can increase the cost.

Some people prefer to have professionals handle the programming of their transponder key. This is due to complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, and also the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional is working on your vehicle. You may be able save money if you go directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys have an edge that is high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s and work to prevent vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate, and they have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from being started in the event that the wrong keys are used.

This technology does hinder car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to duplicate, however thieves can still make use of it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your vehicle. 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 more resistant to picking.

The key repair car is also more durable in comparison to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before fading out. If the key repair car does wear out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.

While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer increased security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder makes it harder to duplicate. They are still at risk of being lost or stolen if you don't make the proper precautions.

Key Fobs

While they're handy keys can be difficult to use. They won't last forever and often stop working at the moment you most likely don't. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in a tense situation, particularly if you're packing your trunk with groceries or heading to work after an extended day. You may have to call an emergency car key repair locksmith or tow truck, and it may cost you a considerable amount 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 are also a factor as they can be more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.

If your key fob doesn't respond or doesn't work at all If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery could fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the old one.

It's up to your dealer reprogramme it if your key fob is damaged or is not working properly. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can bypass this step and purchase a new one to save money. If, however, 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.