Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

A few years ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could buy keys at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.

Since cars have been upgraded to accommodate technological advances replacement of keys that have been lost is more complicated and costly. Learn more about what factors into the total cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think about their car keys, they usually imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. While these are the most popular types of car keys however, there are other kinds that are more sophisticated and have enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car key repairs keys will allow people know what how to repair broken car key expect when they have to replace or repair them.

One of the most basic types of car keys is a standard key, that has been in use for decades and is still the most common option for the latest cars. These are keys that you can purchase at a hardware store and hook to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at a relatively low cost however they can be costly to replace if lost or damaged.

Transponder keys are a modern option that has been around since 1995. They offer security and are more secure than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of damage or loss, but they offer greater protection against theft than traditional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade key that folds down into the form of a key fob when in use. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key is damaged.

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' specific tools to repair key.

Mechanical Keys

In the past the past, if your car's key broke or stopped working, you only had to go to the local hardware store to purchase an alternative. It's a little more complicated today. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each has a different 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 called "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you used to be in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not have a transponder in them and are used to lock the door key repair near me locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.

The transponder keys are the other type, and is the most frequently used. It has a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your Emergency Car Key Repair to confirm that the key is legitimate. This system was installed in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops the ignition from being started by an unauthorised key or a lost one.

The first step in fixing this type of key is to determine what's causing the issue. In most cases, a problem with either the key cap or key switch is the reason. To correct this the key cap and key switch must be removed with an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the issue. 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 each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The microchip inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. If the car's computer doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. This kind of chip is used in all cars built since 1998.

The issue is that the same factor 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 special microchip that has to be programmed into your car's computer to function properly.

This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and entering a programming mode. It is more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because the tools aren't accessible in every locksmith shop you'll spend more than with the replacement of a standard mechanical key.

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

Some prefer to have professional programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna, and using a scanning device and the assurance that comes from knowing you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. Based on the make and model you might be saving money by going directly to the car dealership for the installation of the new chip.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

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

While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key is difficult to copy, but thieves can still make use of it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys use an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key car repair wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder makes it harder to duplicate. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions to keep them safe.

Key Fobs

Key fobs are not always reliable even though they're convenient. They can't keep a charge for long, and they're likely to shut down when you least expect it. You could find yourself in an embarrassing situation if the fob fails in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or going to work after a tiring day. You might need to call for locksmith services or a tow truck and it can cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.

There are many factors that affect the price of a fob, such as the type of key it is made of and the materials used. Brands are also a factor, as they tend to 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 is unresponsive or intermittently works If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery could fix the issue. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and are available at hardware stores or big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the key fob, then insert the new one in the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or no longer works correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's better to leave it to a professional to avoid accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you could skip this step and simply buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a new key at the exact same at the same time.