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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys It wasn't too long ago that losing or worse losing keys to your car was not a big issue. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith. However, as automobiles have adapted to technological advancement the process of replacing keys has become more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the variables that impact the cost of replacing a car key. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While these are the most popular kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of types that are more advanced and have enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people to know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them. One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard key, that has been used for decades and is still the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase at the hardware store and attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly cheap to copy, however they could cost a lot to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged. The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been used since 1995 and provides security over traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key and are activated when they are 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 another option. They fold into an accessory keyfob when not used. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be more costly if the shank or handle of the key has been damaged. There are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. They are more expensive than standard keys and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the past when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to the local hardware store and obtain an alternative. Nowadays things are more complicated. There are many different types of vehicles on the road, and each one has an individual key. Depending on the model it may cost more or less than 50 dollars. Mechanical keys, also referred to as “insert and turn” keys are the simplest kind. These were the keys that you could buy from the hardware store for a few cents. They do not have a transponder and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but they are not used to start the car. The other kind of key, which is the most common one, is the transponder key. It has a tiny transponder located in the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was added to vehicles in 1995 and can prevent them from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used. The first step in fixing this type of key is to determine what's causing the issue. In the majority of cases the reason is due to a problem with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this problem, the key cap or key switch must be removed carefully using a tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is essential since it can eliminate issues like key chatter. This is the case with keys that can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed. Transponder Keys Transponder keys (also known as “chip” keys) are a vital component of your car's anti-theft system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition key cylinder. If the car's computer doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder it won't start. Most cars produced in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip. The problem is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. In addition to having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work properly. This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. This procedure can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you could be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key. The make and model of your vehicle is an additional aspect. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used in order to program their vehicles, which could add cost. Some prefer to have an expert program their transponder keys. This is due to complex procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna as well as using a scanner device, and also the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. Depending on your make and model you might be saving money by going directly to the dealership to arrange to install the new chip. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys Laser cut keys come with blades that have a high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, preventing the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key is used. This technology can prevent car thefts, however it doesn't stop them completely. The key's unique blade and design is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock that's easy for a burglar to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more resistant to picking. The key is also more durable to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and can endure wear and wear for a long time before it begins to wear out. If the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith. Laser-cut keys are more expensive, but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions to keep them safe. Key Fobs While they're handy, key fobs can be difficult to use. They aren't always reliable and are likely to cease functioning when you most likely don't. car key fob repairs keypad can put you in a tense situation, especially if you're putting in your trunk full of food items or heading off to work after a long day. You may have to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck and it could cost you a significant amount to get your car back on the road. Many factors influence the cost of a fob, such as the type of key it contains and its materials. Brands also play a role in that they can be 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 isn't responding or is not working, a simple battery replacement could fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob, then insert the new one with the same orientation. If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's best to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and simply purchase a new one to save money. However, if you've lost both keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.