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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or, even worse losing your car keys was not a big problem. You could purchase an extra key at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
However, as automobiles have adapted to technological advancement and technology, replacing keys that have been lost has become more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they may think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While these are the most commonly used types of car keys but there are a variety of kinds that are more sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will help people understand what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of Car key repair cost (timeoftheworld.date) keys is a standard one, that has been in use for a long time and is the most commonly used option for the latest cars. These are the keys you can purchase at a hardware store and hook to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied for an affordable price however, they can be expensive to replace if lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been in use since 1995 and provides a more secure solution than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become lost or damaged, but provide greater security against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold up into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are more expensive than normal keys to replace, but they are more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote key fob repair starters. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key broke or stopped working, you had to go to the local hardware store and purchase an alternative. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each has a different key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic kind. These were the keys that you could buy from the hardware store for a few pennies. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used for locking the door locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder key is the other type one, and is the most frequently used. It has a tiny transponder inside the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This feature was added to cars in 1995, and can stop them from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
The first step to fix this kind of key is to pinpoint what is causing the malfunction. Most of the time the reason is due to a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this issue the key cap and switch need to be removed with an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the issue. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because it will help in removing issues like 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 component of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. 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 of the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.
Problem is, they're more expensive to replace. They also have distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they contain a unique microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to function properly.
Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is how you do this. This procedure can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is an additional aspect. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles which can increase the cost.
Some prefer having professional programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device and also the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car remote key repair. You may be able save money by going directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys come with blades that have a high level of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s and work to prevent vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate and have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted to stop the vehicle from being started when keys that aren't the right ones are used.
While this technology works to deter car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the right tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that's easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock which is more resistant to picking.
The key's design is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and can withstand lots of wear and tear before fading out. But, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they provide more security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful but key fobs can be tricky. They don't hold a charge forever, and they tend to stop functioning at the moment you aren't expecting to notice. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a difficult situation, particularly if you're putting in your car with groceries or heading to work after an extended day. It's possible to need a locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost you a significant amount to get your broken car key repair back on the road.
A variety of factors affect the price of a fob. These include the type of key it contains and its materials. Brands are also a factor in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle 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 might fix the issue. The coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of your key fob and insert the new one with the same orientation.
You'll need your dealer to reset it if the key fob is damaged or isn't working properly. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to leave it to a professional to avoid accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. You can save money by buying an additional key and fob if you already have one. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the exact same at the same time.