Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing or, even worse, losing keys to your car was not a big problem. 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 replacing keys lost in the car is becoming more difficult and costly. Find out more about the elements that affect the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they usually imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced types of car keys that can offer enhanced security. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people to know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.
Keys that are standard are the simplest type of car key. They've been around for decades, and they remain the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys that you can purchase at an hardware store and then connect to your keychain. Standard keys can be copied for a relatively low cost, but they are expensive to replace if lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, that has been used since 1995 and is an extra secure option 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 are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, however they provide greater protection against theft than standard keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade key, which folds into a key fob when not in use. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly 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 keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days, if you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store and obtain a replacement. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are several types 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 are the most basic type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. They're the ones you used to be in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have a transponder inside them and are intended for locking the trunk or door locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder keys are the other type that is frequently used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder in the head of the key which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was added to automobiles in 1995, and can stop them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.
The first step in fixing this type of key is to identify what is causing the malfunction. Most of the time the issue is with the cap of the key or the switch is the reason. To resolve this issue, the cap or the key switch must be removed carefully using a tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because this can help to eliminate 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 important part of the anti-theft system in your car. visit the up coming site inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition piston. If the car's computer doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder it won't start. The majority of cars manufactured in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have an electronic chip that must be programmed into the vehicle's computer for them to function.
This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a new blank, and because the tools aren't accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to be charged more than with the replacement of a basic mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of your car. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which will increase the cost.
Some people prefer that professional programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using scanners, and the extra assurance that comes with knowing that you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. Based on the model and make you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the dealer for the installation of your new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with a high-security blade. They were introduced in 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted to stop the vehicle from being started in the event that keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology can stop car thieves from entering your home but it's not able to stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key are hard to copy, but thieves can still make use of it with the right tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which can withstand lots of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer more security. The combination of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still at risk of being lost or stolen if you do not take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't always reliable even though they're convenient. They can't keep a charge forever, and they tend to cease functioning at the moment you least expect to notice. A malfunctioning device can put you in a difficult situation, particularly if you're putting in your trunk full of food items or heading off to work after an exhausting day. It's possible to need a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a significant 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 is made of and its materials. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others must be reprogrammed by an authorized dealer.
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. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $10 or less and are available at hardware stores or big box retailers and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts of the key fob apart and then 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 not functioning properly. Although you may be able to do this yourself but it's better to have an expert handle it in order to avoid any damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. If, however, you've lost both your fob and keys, it's worth the extra expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.