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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
Not so long ago the loss of car keys was not an issue. You could buy a spare key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
However, as vehicles have adapted to technological advancement the process of replacing keys has become more complicated and costly. Find out more about what factors into the total 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, there are many other kinds that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Understanding key car repair between various kinds of car keys will help people determine what to expect when replacing or fixing keys.
One of the most basic types of car keys is a standard key, that has been in use for a long time and is the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase at an establishment that sells hardware and attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly cheap to copy, however they could be costly to replace when they're damaged or lost.
Transponder keys are a new alternative that has been in use since 1995. They are a more secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are embedded 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 of damage or loss, but they are more secure against theft than standard keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be more costly when the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost a 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 an alternative. Today things are more complicated. There are a variety of cars on the road and each has distinct keys. Based on the type of car, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you used to be in a position to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have a transponder and are used to lock the trunk or doors but not to start the car.
car key repair near me of key, which is the most popular in use is the transponder keys. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. This system was installed in vehicles as early as 1995. It prevents them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key the first step is to determine what's causing the malfunction. In most cases, a problem with either the cap of the key or the switch is the cause. To fix this issue the key cap and switch need to be removed carefully using tools, then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because it will help in removing issues such as key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an important part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the plastic head of the key transmits signals to the antenna ring around the cylinder of ignition. If the computer of the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't start. Most cars produced from 1998 include this type of chip.
The problem is that they are more expensive to replace. They're not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have microchips that need to be programmed into the car's computer for them to function.
Connecting a diagnostic tool with the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is how you do this. This process can be more complicated than cutting a blank, because these devices aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used in order to program their vehicles, which will increase the cost.
Some prefer having professional programming of their transponder keys. This is due to complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, as well as the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. You may be able save money if you go directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a form of car key that comes with high-security blade. They were introduced in 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started if keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology helps stop car thieves from entering your home but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the right tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional keys have the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel and is able to stand up to wear and wear for a long time before it wears out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively 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 make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still susceptible to being stolen or lost in the event that you fail to take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
While they're handy, key fobs can be difficult to use. They can't keep a charge for a long time, and they are likely to shut down at the moment you least expect to notice. You could end up in a embarrassing situation if your device fails particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. It's possible to call for a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob may influence the cost. It also depends on the brand that is more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others must be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.
If your key fob will not work or works intermittently, a simple replacement battery might be the solution. The coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new battery with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. While there are ways to do this on your own, it's best to let an expert handle it in order to avoid any damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you could skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. However, if you've lost both your keys and fob it's worth the cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.