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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or worse losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could purchase a spare key at the local auto parts store or locksmith.

As cars have adapted to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that impact the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they often 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 offer greater security. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to expect when replacing or fixing the keys.

Standard keys are the simplest type of car key. They have been around for a long time, and remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are the keys you can purchase from the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly cheap to copy, however they can be expensive to replace when they're damaged or lost.

Modern alternatives include the transponder key which has been in use since 1995 and provides 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 expensive to replace in the event of loss or damage, but they are more secure against theft than standard keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade, which folds into the form of a key fob when in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they could be more expensive in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.

There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote key fob repair starters. They cost more than standard keys and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store to find a replacement. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are many kinds of vehicles in use and each has a different key. Based on the type of car it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you were able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have a transponder inside them and are intended for locking the door or trunk locks, but not to start the car.

The other type of key, which is the most popular one is the transponder keys. This key has a small transponder inside the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the validity of the key. The system was put in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It prevents the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or lost one.

To fix this kind of key the first step is to figure out what's causing the malfunction. In most cases the issue is with the key fob repair service cap or key switch is the reason. To fix this the key cap and key switch must be removed carefully using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is important because it can help solve issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys that register multiple inputs when they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition piston. If the car's computer does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't start. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.

Problem is, they're more expensive to replace. They also have an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a unique microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function properly.

This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. This procedure can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could have to pay more than if were to replace the mechanical key.

The model and make of your vehicle is another factor. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which can increase your cost.

Some prefer having a professional 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, as well as the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. Depending on the model and make you may be saving money by bringing your car directly to the dealer to install your new chip.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys have a blade with a high level of security. They came on the scene in the 1990s, and are used to stop vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key is used.

This technology does deter car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The key's unique blade and shape are difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the right tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional keys have an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, come with an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and can withstand lots of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's inexpensive to replace it by an experienced locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock key repair near me make it more difficult to duplicate. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the proper security measures to ensure their safety.

Key Fobs

Key fobs may not be reliable even though they're practical. They don't last for a long time, and they are likely to cease functioning when you least expect it. You could end up in an embarrassing situation if your device fails, especially if you are taking your trunk full of groceries or going to work after a exhausting day. You may need to contact an locksmith or a tow truck, and it may cost you a lot of money to get your car back on the road.

The type of key and the materials used in the fob could influence the cost. It also depends on the manufacturer, which typically costs more. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.

If your key fob will not work or is working infrequently, a new battery might be the solution. The coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pry off the two halves of your key lock repair near me fob, then insert the new one in the same orientation.

You'll need your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob is damaged or is not working properly. Although you may be able to do this on your own, it's best to have professionals handle the task to prevent any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing a new key and fob if you already have one. If you've lost both fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.