Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past misplacing or even losing your car keys wasn't an issue. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
As cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.
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When we think of our car keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. While those are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars however, there are other types that are more advanced and have enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will allow people to know what to 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 used for decades and remains the most popular choice for cars with modern technology. car key fob repair near me are keys that you can buy at an hardware store and then attach onto 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.
Modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been used since 1995 and offers a more secure solution than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key, and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but offer greater protection from theft than conventional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade key that folds down into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They're more expensive than normal keys to replace, but they can be more expensive if the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to your local hardware store to get a replacement. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are a variety of vehicles in use 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, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest kind. They're the ones you were able to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used to lock the door locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder key is the other type that is commonly used. It has a tiny transponder located in the head of the key that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was introduced in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops the ignition from being started by an unauthorised key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key the first step is to identify the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases, a problem with either the cap of the key or the switch is the reason. To fix this problem, the key cap or the key switch must be removed with a tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is essential because it can help remove issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys that allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are a vital component of the anti-theft system in your car. The small microchip embedded in the plastic head of the key transmits signals to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder that controls the ignition. If the computer of the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. This kind of chip can be used in all cars built since 1998.
The problem is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include an electronic chip that must be programmed into the vehicle'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 simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another factor is the make and model of the car you are driving. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.
Some prefer having professional programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complex procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device as well as the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your car. You could save money by going directly to the dealer to have your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys feature an edge that is high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s and work to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting in the event that the incorrect key is used.
While this technology helps stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them completely. The key's unique blade and shape are difficult to duplicate, however a burglar with the right tools and equipment can still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have the sidewinder cylinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.
The design of the key is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer increased security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the necessary steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable even though they're useful. They don't hold a charge for a long time, and they are likely to stop functioning when you aren't expecting it. You could end up in a compromising situation if the fob fails particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. You might need to call for a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key and the materials used in the fob may influence the cost. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob will not function or functions intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. key car repair are typically $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores or big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently pull the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery in the same way that the old one had.
It's up to your dealer reprogramme it if your key fob has been damaged or isn't working properly. While there are ways to do this on your own but it's better to have professionals handle the task to prevent any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying new keys and fobs in the event that you already have one. If you've lost both fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.