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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

In the past the loss of car keys was not an issue. You could purchase an extra key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.

Since cars have been upgraded to keep up with technological advancements replacement of keys that have been lost is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that impact the cost of a replacement car remote key fob repair key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they might think of a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car keys that offer greater security. Knowing the distinctions between different kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to expect when replacing or repairing keys.

One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard key, that has been used for a long time and is the most commonly used option for the latest cars. These are keys that you can buy at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Standard keys can be copied at the cost of a small amount however they can be costly to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

More modern options include the transponder keys, which has been in use since 1995 and offers security over traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but provide greater security against theft than traditional keys.

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

Additionally, there are 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.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to the local hardware store and find an alternative. Nowadays things are more complicated. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the model that you are replacing, it could cost more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest type. They were the keys you could buy from the hardware shop for a few cents. They do not have an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or doors, but they are not used to start the car.

The transponder key is a different type that is commonly used. This key has an internal transponder within the head that sends a coded signal to your car's ignition system to verify that the key is legitimate. This feature was added to cars in 1995 and prevents them from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

The first step in fixing this kind of key is to pinpoint what's causing the issue. Most of the time, a problem with either the cap of the key or the switch is the cause. To fix this problem, the cap of the key repairs near me and switch need to be removed carefully using tools, then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is essential because it can help solve issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys which allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your vehicle. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer doesn't receive the correct response. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made from 1998 onwards.

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, but they also contain an electronic car key repair near me chip that must be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to function.

This process is done by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode. It is more complicated than just cutting a new blank, and because the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop, you'll pay more for this service than if you replace a basic mechanical key.

The model and make of your vehicle is a different important factor. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which will increase the cost.

Some prefer to have an expert program their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device and the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. Depending on your make and model you may be able to save money by bringing your car key fob repairs directly to the dealer to install the new chip.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that has an extremely secure blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting if the wrong key is used.

This technology can deter car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key are difficult to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because conventional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable compared to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can endure wear and tear for a long time before it becomes worn out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is affordable to have it repaired by a locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the proper precautions to keep them safe.

Key Fobs

Even though they're convenient keys can be finicky. They aren't always reliable and often stop working when you least expect them. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a difficult situation, particularly if you're loading your trunk full of groceries or leaving for work after a long 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 car back on the road.

A variety of factors affect the price of a fob. These include the type of key it is made of and its materials. Brands are also a factor as they can be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others must be reprogrammed by a dealer.

If your key fob isn't responding or intermittently works A simple battery replacement could fix the issue. These batteries are typically $10 or less and are available at hardware stores or big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the old one.

If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's best to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could lead to expensive 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 your keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.