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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

In the past the loss of car key repairs keys was not a big deal. You could buy keys at the local auto parts store or locksmith.

However, as vehicles have adapted to technological advancement and technology, replacing keys that have been lost is becoming more complicated and costly. Learn more about the variables that impact the cost of a replacement car key repair shop.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they could think of a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced types of car keys that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys will help people know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.

One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard key which has been around for decades and remains the most commonly used option for newer cars. These are the keys you can buy at an establishment that sells hardware and attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for a relatively low cost however they can be costly to replace if lost or damaged.

Transponder keys are an innovative option that has been around since 1995. They offer an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of damage or loss, but they provide greater protection against theft than conventional keys.

Another option is the switchblade key which folds up into a key fob when not in use. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly when the handle or shank of the key is damaged.

There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. These are more expensive than standard keys and may require locksmith's tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store to find an alternative. The process is a bit more complicated in the present. There are many kinds of cars in circulation and each one has its own key. 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 known as "insert-and-turn" keys. They're the ones you were in a position to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not come with an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or doors, but not to start the car.

The other type of key, which is the most popular one is the transponder keys. It has an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal the ignition system in your car to verify that the key is in fact valid. This feature was added to automobiles in 1995 and prevents them from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

To fix this type of key the first step is to determine what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases it is due to a problem with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this issue the key cap and key switch must be removed with an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because this can help to eliminate problems like mobile key repair chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an essential part of the anti-theft system in your car. The small microchip embedded inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. If the computer in the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't start. This kind of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.

The issue is that they are more expensive to replace. They're not just different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have microchips that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to function.

This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and entering the programming mode. This process is more complicated than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.

Another factor is the model and make of your car. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which will add cost.

Some people prefer that professional programming of their transponder keys. This is due to complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Based on the make and model you might be able to save money by going directly to the dealership to arrange to install the new chip.

Keys Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys come with an edge that is high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, which stops the vehicle from starting when the incorrect key is used.

This technology can prevent car thefts, however it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key is difficult to duplicate, however burglars can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your car key Repair Cost. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more resistant to picking.

The design of the key is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel that can withstand lots of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is affordable to repair it by a locksmith.

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 make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still at risk of being lost or stolen in the event that you fail to take the appropriate precautions.

Key Fobs

Key fobs aren't always reliable, even though they are convenient. They aren't always reliable and are likely to cease functioning when you most likely don't. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in a difficult situation, especially if you're packing your trunk with groceries or leaving for work after an exhausting day. You might need to call a locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key and the materials used in the fob can influence the cost. Brands also play a role as they can be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.

If your key fob will not function or functions intermittently, a simple replacement battery may be the solution. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost less than $10 and are available at hardware stores, big box retailers, and online. To replace the battery, gently break apart the two halves of your key fob, then insert the new one in the same orientation.

It is necessary for your dealer to change the program if your key fob has been damaged or is not functioning properly. While you can find ways to do this on your own but it's better to let professionals handle the task to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to costly keyless entry repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing an additional key and fob in the event that you already have one. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the same time.