Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or worse losing your car keys wasn't a big problem. You could purchase an extra key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the elements that impact the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are many more advanced types of car keys that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys will help people know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic types of car keys is a standard one, which has been around for decades and remains the most popular choice for cars with modern technology. These are keys that you can purchase from a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys of the standard type are cheap to copy, however they could cost a lot to replace if they're lost or damaged.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, that has been used since 1995 and offers an extra secure option than traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key, and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but they offer greater protection from theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they 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 as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to your local hardware store and obtain an alternative. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. There are many kinds of cars in circulation and each one has its own 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 are the ones that you used to be in a position to replace 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 key is a different type that is commonly used. It has a transponder in the key head that sends a coded signal to your car's ignition system to confirm that the key is in fact valid. This system was added to cars in 1995, and can stop the ignition from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
To fix this kind of key the first step is to figure out the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases the reason is due to an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To resolve this issue, the cap or the key switch will need to be removed carefully using the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating repair car keys on the key is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate problems like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "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 car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition key cylinder. If the computer of the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder it won't be able to start. Most cars produced since 1998 have this type of chip.
The issue is that the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include a microchip that needs to be programmed into the car's computer for them to work.
Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. This procedure can be more complex than cutting a blank because these tools aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you could have to pay more than if were to replace a mechanical key.
The make and model of your vehicle is another factor. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used to program their vehicles, which will increase your cost.
Some people prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder key. This is because of the complex procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using a scanning device as well as the assurance that comes from knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have blades that have a high level of security. They came on the scene in the 1990s and help to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started if keys that are not the correct ones are used.
This technology does prevent car thefts, however it's not enough to stop them completely. The key's unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the right tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's fairly inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it difficult to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you do not take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are convenient. They don't hold a charge for a long time, and they are likely to shut down when you least expect it. You may find yourself in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. It's possible to need a locksmith or tow truck and it could cost you a considerable amount to get your car back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob may affect the price. Brands are also a factor in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others need to be reprogrammed by a dealer.
If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and are available at hardware stores or big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation that the old one had.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's best to leave it to an expert to avoid accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying an additional key and fob even if you already have. If, however, you've lost both your fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.