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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't that long ago that losing or, even worse, losing your car key repair (please click the next post) keys was not an issue. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.

However, as cars have advanced to meet the demands of technology, replacing lost keys has become more difficult and expensive. Read on to learn more about what factors into the total cost of car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they usually think of a simple metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. While those are the most popular types of car keys, there are many other kinds that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will help people to know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

Keys that are standard are the simplest type of car key. They have been around for many years, and remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are the keys you can purchase at an establishment that sells hardware and connect to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace when they're damaged or lost.

Transponder keys are an innovative alternative that has been in use since 1995. They provide a more secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but they provide greater security against theft than conventional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade key, which folds into a key fob when not in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key is damaged.

Lastly, there are also the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote control car key repairs starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past the past, if your car's key fob repair near me was damaged or where to repair car key remote stopped working, you had to visit the local hardware store to get an alternative. Things are a bit more complicated now. There are several types of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct 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 type. These keys were the ones you could replace at the hardware store for a few pennies. They do not have a transponder in them and are used to lock the trunk or door locks but not for starting the car.

The other type of key, which is the most commonly used utilized, is the transponder key. This key has a small transponder located in the head of the key which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. This system was added to vehicles in 1995 and prevents them from being started in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used.

To fix this kind of key the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. In the majority of cases it is a problem with the cap on the key or switch is the culprit. To fix this issue, the key cap or the key switch must be removed carefully using the appropriate tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is crucial as it will help to solve issues such as key chatter. This is a reference to keys which register multiple inputs when pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft security system. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition key cylinder. If the computer of the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't start. This kind of chip is used in all cars built from 1998 onwards.

The problem is, the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They also have a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a unique microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function effectively.

Connecting a diagnostic tool with your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and because 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 a different factor. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars and increase the cost.

Some prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complex procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device and also the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. You could save money if you go directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a form of car key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They came on the scene in the 1990s and help to stop vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting if keys that aren't the right ones are used.

While this technology can deter car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them entirely. The unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the proper tools and equipment can still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, come with the sidewinder cylinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and can stand up to wear and tear for a long time before it begins to wear out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith.

While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer increased security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you do not take the appropriate precautions.

Key Fobs

Although they're useful keys can be finicky. They won't last forever and tend to stop working when you most likely don't. You may find yourself in an embarrassing situation if the fob fails in the middle of taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. It's possible to need a locksmith or tow truck and it could cost you a significant amount 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 brand that is more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.

If your key fob isn't responding or is not working A simple battery replacement might fix the issue. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently break off the two halves of the key fob and insert the new one with the same orientation.

It's up to your dealer reset it if the key fob has been damaged or is not functioning as it should. While you can find ways to do this yourself but it's better to have a professional handle it to prevent any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth the cost to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same time.