Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

In the past, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys was not an issue. You could purchase a spare key at your local auto parts store or locksmith.

However, as automobiles 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 about their car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. While those are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars, there are many other types that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car key button repair keys will allow people understand what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.

One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard one, which has been around for decades and remains the most commonly used option for newer cars. These are keys that you can purchase from an establishment that sells hardware and connect to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at a relatively low cost however, they can be expensive to replace when 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. These have microchips in the handle of the key, and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of loss or damage, however they offer greater protection against theft than standard keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade that folds down into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They cost more than regular keys, but they may cost more in the event that the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

There are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote key repair starts. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' special tools to repair car key fob.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to your local hardware store to get a replacement. It's a little more complicated in the present. There are a variety of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the model the key is replaced, it could cost more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the most basic 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 have a transponder in them and are used to lock the door or trunk locks, but not to start the car.

The other kind of key, which is the most commonly used in use is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was installed in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops the ignition from being started by an unauthorised key or lost one.

The first step in fixing this kind of key is to pinpoint the cause of the problem. In most cases the reason is due to a problem with the key cap or the key switch. To correct this the key cap and switch need to be removed with an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the problem. Lubricating the switch is essential since it can remove issues such as key chatter. This is a reference to keys that register multiple inputs when pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also known as “chip” keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition piston. If the car's computer does not 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. In addition to having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to function correctly.

This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to the car key repair cost's computer and entering the programming mode. This procedure can be more complicated than cutting a blank because these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could pay 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 cars, which increases your cost.

Some people prefer that a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device, and also the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys

(Image: https://www.thekeylab.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sb-instagram-feed-images/311170119_2306394586188303_2849487588620745484_nlow.jpg)Laser cut keys come with blades that have a high degree of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s and work to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key is used.

This technology does prevent car thefts, however it doesn't stop them completely. The key's unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the right tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more difficult to pick.

The key's design is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel and is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is affordable to have it repaired by locksmiths.

While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock makes it harder to duplicate. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions to keep them safe.

Key Fobs

Although they're useful keys can be tricky. They aren't always reliable and tend to stop working at the moment you most likely don't. You could end up in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or going to work after a long and exhausting day. You may need to contact a locksmith or a tow truck, and it may cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.

Many factors influence the cost of a fob. These include the type of key it is made of and its materials. It is also dependent on the brand that is more expensive. 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 function or functions intermittently, a simple replacement battery may be the solution. The coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pry the two parts of the key fob and then insert the new one with the same orientation as the previous one.

If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's best to leave it to a professional to avoid accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can bypass this step and purchase a replacement to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth the cost to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the exact same time.