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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing or, even worse losing your car keys was not an problem. In fact, you could probably buy a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.

However, as vehicles have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys has become more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that impact the cost of a replacement car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car keys that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car Key repair Cost keys will help people determine what to anticipate when replacing or repairing the keys.

Standard keys are the most basic kind of car key. They've been around for decades, and they remain the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase at the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at a relatively low cost however, they can be expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, which has been used since 1995 and provides a more secure solution than traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key, and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of loss or damage, but they are more secure against theft than conventional keys repair near me.

Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are a bit 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 with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote car key repair near me starts. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when your car key repair shop near me broke or stopped working, you only had to go to the local hardware store to purchase a new one. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are several types of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on its type, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you were capable of replacing at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors, but not to start the car.

The other type of key, which is the most popular utilized is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a transponder in the key head that sends a coded signal to your car's ignition system to confirm that the key is in fact valid. This system was added to automobiles in 1995 and can prevent them from being started if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

The first step to fix this kind of key is to determine what is causing the malfunction. In most cases it is due to either an issue with the key cap or the key switch. To resolve this issue, the cap or the key switch must be removed with care using the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because it can help eliminate issues such as key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. If the computer in the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder it won't be able to start. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.

The issue is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. Apart from having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a special microchip that needs to be programmed into your car's computer to work effectively.

Connecting a diagnostic tool to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. It is more complicated than just cutting a new blank, and because the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop you'll be charged more than when replacing a standard mechanical key.

Another consideration is the make and model of your car. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars which can increase the cost.

Some people prefer that professional programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complex procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, and the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Depending on your make and model, you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the car dealership for the installation of the new chip.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a form of car key fob repairs near me key that has an extremely secure blade. They were introduced in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from being started if keys that are not the correct ones are used.

While this technology helps protect against car thieves but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The key's unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, but anyone with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to gain entry into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.

The design of the key is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before fading out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is affordable to repair key fob it by a locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive, but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder makes it harder to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being stolen or lost if you do not make the proper precautions.

Key Fobs

While they're handy but key fobs can be finicky. They don't last forever and tend to stop working at the moment you most likely don't. You could end up in an embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or going to work after a long and tiring day. You may have to call a locksmith or tow truck, and it may cost you a considerable amount to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob could affect the cost. It also depends on the brand that is more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others need to be reprogrammed by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. These batteries are typically less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores, big box retailers, and even online. To replace the battery, gently tear the two halves of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the previous one.

It is necessary for your dealer to reset it if the key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to expensive 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 key and fob together, it's worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the exact same time.