Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that losing or, even worse losing keys to your car was not an issue. You could purchase a spare key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
As cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the variables that impact the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they may think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to expect when replacing or repair the keys.
Standard keys are the simplest type of car keys. They've been around for decades, and they remain the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can buy at an establishment that sells hardware and attach to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at an affordable price however they can be costly to replace when lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are an innovative alternative that has been in use since 1995. They offer a more secure alternative to traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the key handle and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but offer greater protection from theft than conventional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade that folds down into a key fob when not in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they could be more expensive if the shank or handle of the key is damaged.
There are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These are more expensive than standard keys and could require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key was damaged or stopped working, you needed to visit the local hardware store and purchase an alternative. It's a little more complicated in the present. There are many kinds of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on the type the key is replaced, it could cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you were in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not contain a transponder within them and are intended for locking the door or trunk locks, but not to start the car.
The other type of key, that is the most popular in use is the transponder keys. This key has a small transponder inside the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. This system was installed in vehicles as early as 1995. It prevents the ignition from being started by an unauthorized key or a lost one.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. Most of the time it is a problem with the cap on the key or switch is the reason. To fix this problem, the key cap or key switch will need to be removed with care using a tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is important as it will help to solve issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys that can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft system. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition piston. If the computer in the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder it won't start. This type of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
The problem is that they're more expensive to replace. They're not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include an electronic chip that must be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to function.
This process is done by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to your car's computer and then entering a programming mode. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and, because these devices aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you could be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
Another aspect is the model and make of your car. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which can increase your cost.
Some prefer to have an expert program their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing a scanning device as well as the assurance that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealership to get the new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a kind of car key with high-security blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting when the incorrect key is used.
This technology helps hinder car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and design of the key are difficult to copy, but a burglar can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more resistant to picking.
The key's design is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and is able to withstand wear and tear for a long time before it becomes worn out. If the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer increased security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. However, car key remote repair to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary precautions to keep them safe.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable even though they're practical. They don't last forever and often stop working at the moment you most likely don't. You could find yourself in an embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are taking your trunk full of groceries or going to work after a long and tiring day. It's possible to call for an locksmith or a tow truck and it can cost a lot to get your car back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob can affect the price. It also depends on the brand which is usually more expensive. Some 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 intermittently, a simple replacement battery could be the answer. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $10 or less and are available at hardware stores or big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation that the old one had.
It's up to your dealer change the program if your key fob is damaged or is no longer functioning properly. You can do it yourself, but it's best to let it be done by an expert to avoid accidental damage that could result in costly 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, however, you've lost both your fob and keys it's worth the expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.