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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past the loss of car keys weren't a big deal. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Find out more about the factors that affect the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When we think of our car keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. While those are the most common types of car keys however, there are other kinds that are more sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars can help people anticipate what to expect when replacing or fixing keys.
Standard keys are the most basic type of car keys. They've been around for many years, and remain the most sought-after option for vehicles with newer technology. These are keys that you can purchase from the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for an affordable price however, they can be expensive to replace when lost or damaged.
More modern options include the transponder key, which has been used since 1995 and is a more secure solution than traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of damage or loss, but they provide greater protection against theft than standard keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold up into a keyfob when not being used. They are more expensive than standard keys, but they can be more expensive if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
Additionally, there are the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. They are more expensive than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was visit your local hardware store to find a replacement. Today, things are a little more complicated. There are many kinds of vehicles in use and each has a different key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic kind. These are the ones that you were capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not come with transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors but not to start the car.
The transponder keys are the other type that is commonly used. The key is equipped with an internal transponder within the head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to confirm that the key is in fact valid. This system was introduced in vehicles as early as 1995. It protects the ignition from being started by an unauthorized key or a lost one.
The first step to fix this kind of key is to determine what's causing the issue. In the majority of cases the reason is due to a problem with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this issue, the cap or switch must be removed with a tool. They will then need 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 which can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are a vital component of your car's anti-theft system. The small microchip embedded in the plastic head of the key transmits a signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. If the computer in the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder it won't begin to turn on. The majority of cars manufactured in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The problem is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. In addition to having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a special microchip that must be programmed into your vehicle's computer to function properly.
This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the computer in your car and then entering the programming mode. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you might pay more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is an additional important factor. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars, which increases your cost.
Some prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures involved, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and using scanning devices and the security that comes with knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Depending on your make and model, you may be able to save money by bringing your car directly to the dealer to install your new chip.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys come with blades that have a high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started when keys that aren't the right ones are used.
While this technology helps protect against car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to duplicate, however burglars can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. However, laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more resistant to picking.
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 eventually wearing out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's relatively cheap to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost if you do not take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
While they're handy but key fobs can be finicky. They don't last forever and tend to stop functioning when you least expect them. You may find yourself in an embarrassing situation if the fob fails, especially if you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. You may have to call a locksmith or a tow truck, and it may cost you a significant amount to get your vehicle back on the road.
A variety of factors affect the price of a fob, such as the kind of key it comes with and the materials it is made of. It is also dependent on the brand that is more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob does not work or works infrequently, a new battery might be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pry the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery in the same way that the old one had.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function correctly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing a new key and fob in the event that you already have one. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's worth it to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a new key at the exact same at the same time.