Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or worse losing keys to your car was not a big problem. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.
However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys has become more difficult and expensive. Read on to learn more about what factors into the total cost of car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, many think of a simple metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Knowing the differences between different types of keys for cars will help people determine what to expect when replacing or repairing keys.
One of the most basic types of car keys is a standard one, which has been around for decades and remains the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at the cost of a small amount, but they are expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.
Transponder keys are a new option that has been available since 1995. They provide security and are more secure than traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated 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 they offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold up into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They're 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.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. These are more expensive than standard keys, and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days, if you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was head to your local hardware store and find an alternative. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are several types of cars in circulation and each one has its own key. Depending on its type it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. They're the ones 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 for locking the door locks or trunk locks, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most popular utilized, is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal to your car's ignition system to confirm that the key is in fact valid. This feature was added 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 what is causing the malfunction. In most cases, the cause is due to either a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To correct this problem, the cap of the key and switch need to be carefully removed using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the key switch is a crucial step as it will help in removing issues such as key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys", are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition piston. The car won't start if the computer does not get the correct response. This kind of chip can be found in most cars manufactured since 1998.
The problem is, the same factor that makes these kinds 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 a microchip that needs to be programmed into the vehicle's computer for them to function.
This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to the car's computer and then entering the programming mode. It can be more difficult than just cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop, you'll spend more than when replacing a basic mechanical key.
Another aspect is the make and model of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.
Some people prefer to have professionals handle the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the complex procedures involved, including cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using scanners as well as the security that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a type of car key with a high-security blade. They first came to the market in the 1990s, and are used 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 they are inserted to stop the vehicle from being started if keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them entirely. The unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder lock cylinder, 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 lots of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, vehicle key repairs are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful keys can be difficult to use. They won't last forever and are likely to cease working when you most likely don't. You could end up in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions, especially if you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or going to work after a tiring day. You might need to call a locksmith or tow truck and it could cost you a significant amount to get your car back on the road.
The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob may influence the cost. Brands are also an important factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others must be programmed by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob doesn't respond or doesn't work at all, a simple battery replacement might fix the issue. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery in the same way as the old one.
It's up to your dealer change the program if your key fob is damaged or is no longer functioning properly. You can do it yourself, but it's better to let it be done by an expert to avoid accidental damage which 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 worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a new key at the exact same at the same time.