Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past the loss of car keys was not an issue. In fact, you could probably buy a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.
As cars have adapted to keep up with technological advancements, replacing lost keys is becoming more difficult and costly. Learn more about the variables that influence the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts 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 have enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing the keys.
Standard keys are the most basic kind of car keys. They've been in use for decades, and they remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can buy at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied for an affordable price, but they are expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been in use since 1995 and offers an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if lost or damaged, but offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold up into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They are more expensive than regular keys, but they may cost more when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
Additionally, there are the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. They are more expensive than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair.
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 head to the local hardware store and get an alternative. It's a little more complicated now. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each one has its own key. Depending on the model, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. They are the keys that you were able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not come with transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors but they are not used to start the car.
The transponder key is a different type that is commonly used. It has a tiny transponder inside the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was installed in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It stops the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or lost one.
The first step to fix this type of key is to determine the cause of the problem. In the majority of cases it is due to an issue with the cap of the key or the key switch. To resolve this problem, the key cap or key switch must be removed with care using a tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate problems like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an essential 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 surrounding the ignition key cylinder. If remote car key repair isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't begin to turn on. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.
The problem is that they are more expensive to replace. In addition to having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work correctly.
Connecting a diagnostic tool with the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is how you do this. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and, because these devices aren't available in all locksmith shops, you could pay more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of your car. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used in order to program their vehicles, which can increase the cost.
Some prefer having a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device and the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. You may be able save money by going directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have a blade with a high degree of security. They were introduced in 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional key designs and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted to stop the vehicle from being started when keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology works to protect against car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, however a burglar with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to get into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
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 period before it begins to wear out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer increased security. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock cylinder makes it harder to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being stolen or lost if you don't take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
While they're handy, key fobs can be tricky. They don't last forever and tend to stop working at the moment you most likely don't. You could end up in a compromising situation if the fob fails in the middle of taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. It's possible to need a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob can affect the cost. Brands are also a factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others need to be programmed by a dealer.
If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a simple replacement battery might be the solution. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores or big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts of the key fob and then insert the new one in the same way as the previous one.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by an expert to avoid accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and buy a replacement to save money. If, however, you've lost both fob and keys it's worth the expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.