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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys Not so long ago the loss of car keys wasn't a big deal. You could buy keys at the local auto parts store or locksmith. As cars have adapted to accommodate technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. There are many more advanced types of car keys that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars can help people know what to expect when replacing or repairing them. Full Content are the simplest type of car key. They have been around for a long time, and are still the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys you can buy at an establishment that sells hardware and attach to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively affordable to duplicate, but could cost a lot to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged. The most modern alternatives include the transponder keys, that has been used since 1995 and provides a more secure solution than traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key, and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but offer better protection against theft than traditional keys. Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are more expensive than standard keys, but they can be more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle are damaged. There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. These are more expensive than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the past when your car key was damaged or was not working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to purchase a new one. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are a variety of cars on the road and each comes with distinct keys. 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. These were the keys that you could replace at the hardware store for a few dollars. They do not have a transponder in them and are intended for locking the door locks or trunk locks but not for starting the car. The other type of key, that is the most popular one is the transponder key. It has a transponder inside the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify that the key is valid. This feature was added to cars in 1995 and prevents them from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used. To fix this kind of key the first step is to figure out the reason for its malfunction. In most cases, a problem with either the cap of the key or the switch is the cause. To correct this the key cap and key switch must be carefully removed using an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the issue. Lubricating the key switch is essential as this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also referred as “chip keys” are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. The car won't start if the computer doesn't receive the correct response. This kind of chip is used in all cars built since 1998. The problem is, the same feature that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have an electronic chip that must be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to function. This process is done by connecting a diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and then entering the programming mode. This process can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key. Another factor is the model and make of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost. Some people prefer that professional programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your car. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealer to have your new chip installed. Laser Cut Keys Laser cut keys are a form of car key that has an extremely secure blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are more difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted, preventing the vehicle from starting if keys that aren't the right ones are used. While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them completely. The key's unique blade and shape is difficult to duplicate, but anyone with the proper tools and equipment can still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that's easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more difficult to pick. The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before fading out. But, if the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith. car key fob repair near me -cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock make it difficult to duplicate. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions to keep them safe. Key Fobs Key fobs may not be reliable even though they're practical. They don't last forever and are likely to cease working at the moment you most likely don't. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in an embarrassing situation, particularly if you're putting in your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a long day. You may have to call a locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost you a considerable amount to get your vehicle back on the road. The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob could affect the price. It also depends on the brand that is more expensive. Some 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 is not working If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently tear the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new battery in the same way as the previous one. It is necessary for your dealer to change the program if your key fob is damaged or is not working properly. While there are ways to do this yourself but it's better to have a professional handle it to avoid any damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's well worth it to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same at the same time.