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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

In the past the loss of car keys was not a big deal. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.

As cars have adapted to keep up with technological advancements replacement of keys that have been lost is becoming more difficult and costly. Read on to learn more about the factors that affect the total cost of car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While these are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and have enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people to know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.

Keys that are standard are the most basic type of car key. They have been around for many years, and remain the most sought-after choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys that you can purchase at an hardware store and then connect to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at a relatively low cost, but they are expensive to replace if lost or damaged.

Transponder keys are a new option that has been around since 1995. They provide a more secure alternative to traditional keys. These have microchips in the key handle and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but they offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade key that folds down into the form of a key fob when in use. They're more expensive than regular keys to replace, but they may cost more if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

Lastly, there are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' tools to repair car key remote.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when your car mobile key fob repair broke or stopped working, you only had to visit the local hardware store to purchase new keys. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. There are many kinds of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the type of car, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic kind. These are the ones that you were able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors but they are not used to start the car.

The other type of key, that is the most commonly used one is the transponder keys. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the head of the key which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was introduced to vehicles in 1995 and prevents the ignition from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

The first step in fixing this type of key is to determine the cause of the problem. Most of the time the reason is due to a problem with the key cap or the key switch. To resolve this issue, the key cap or switch will need to be removed with care using a tool. They will then have 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 referred as "chip keys", are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your car key repair cost. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key repairs key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition key cylinder. If the car's computer does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't be able to start. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.

The issue is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to function.

Connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop, you're likely to pay more for this service than with the replacement of a standard mechanical key.

Another aspect is the make and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used to program their vehicles, which can increase your cost.

Some prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder mobile key fob repair. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna, and using a scanning device, and the extra peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Depending on your model and make you might be able to save money by bringing your car directly to the dealer to install the new chip.

Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys feature a blade with a high degree of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s and work to prevent vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting in the event that the incorrect key is used.

This technology helps prevent car thefts, however it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to copy, but burglars can still use it with the right tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock, which is much more resistant to picking.

The design of the key is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and is able to stand up to wear and tear for a long time before it becomes worn out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder, and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary steps to protect them.

Key Fobs

Even though they're convenient keys can be finicky. 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 car with food items or heading off to work after an extended 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.

A variety of factors affect the price of a fob, including the type of key it contains and its materials. Brands also play a role in that 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 will not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery might be the solution. These coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery with the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's better to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage which could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can bypass this step and buy a replacement to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a new key at the exact same time.