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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys A few years ago the loss of car keys wasn't an issue. You could purchase a spare key at your local auto parts store or locksmith. However, as automobiles have adapted to technological advancement and technology, replacing keys that have been lost is becoming more complicated and expensive. Read on to learn more about what factors into the overall cost of a car key replacement. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, they could imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While these are the most popular kinds of keys for cars however, there are other kinds that are more sophisticated and can provide enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car keys can help people know what to expect when it comes to replacing or repair the keys. Standard keys are the most basic kind of car keys. They've been around for decades, and they are still the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys you can purchase at the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Keys of the standard type are affordable to duplicate, but can be expensive to replace if they're lost or damaged. More modern options include the transponder key that has been used since 1995 and provides an extra secure option than traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys. Another alternative is the switchblade, which folds into a key fob when not in use. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be more costly in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged. There are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair. car key repair shop near me In the past, if your car key was damaged or was not working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to purchase new keys. Things are a bit more complicated now. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50. Mechanical keys, also referred to as “insert and turn” keys are the simplest type. They're the ones you used to be in a position to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used for locking the door or trunk locks, but not for starting the car. The transponder keys are the other type that is commonly used. This key has a small transponder inside the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the validity of the key. This feature was added to vehicles in 1995 and prevents them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used. To fix this kind of key the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases the reason is due to either a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix the issue, the key cap or switch will need to be removed carefully using an instrument. Then, car keys repairs near me will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is essential as it will help to eliminate issues like key chatter. This is a reference to keys that can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed. Transponder Keys Transponder keys (also known as “chip” keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft system. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits a signal to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder of ignition. If the car's computer isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't start. Most cars produced since 1998 have this type of chip. The issue is that they're more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include a microchip that needs to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to function. This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. This process is more complex than cutting a blank, because these devices aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you might pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key. Another factor is the make and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which will increase the cost. Some prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder key. It is due to the complicated procedures, such as 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. You may be able save money if you go directly to the dealership to get the new chip installed. Keys Laser Cut Keys Laser cut keys come with an edge that is high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting when the incorrect key is used. This technology can hinder car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the right tools to gain access to your car. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that's easy for burglars to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock which is more difficult to pick. The design of the key is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel, which can withstand lots of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively cheap to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith. Laser-cut keys are more expensive but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock make it more difficult to duplicate. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary precautions to keep them safe. Key Fobs While they're handy keys can be tricky. They don't last for long, and they're likely to shut down when you least expect to notice. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in a difficult situation, especially if you're loading your trunk with food items or heading off to work after a long day. It's possible to contact a locksmith or a tow truck and it can cost you a lot of money to get your car 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. Brands also play a role, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle. If your key fob doesn't respond or intermittently works If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery could fix the issue. 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 the two parts of the key fob and then insert the new battery in the same way as the old one. If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. While there are ways to do this on your own, it's best to have professionals handle the task to avoid any accidental damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you could skip this step and simply purchase a new one to save money. If, however, you've lost both keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.