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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing or worse, losing your car keys was not a big issue. In fact, you could probably buy a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.

As cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is becoming more difficult and costly. Learn more about the variables that impact the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When we think of our car keys, many think of a simple metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. While those are the most common kinds of keys for cars however, there are other types that are more advanced and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between different types of keys for cars can help people anticipate what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing keys.

Standard keys are the simplest type of car key. They've been in use for decades, and they are still the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are the keys you can buy at the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly cheap to copy, however they can be expensive to replace when they're damaged or lost.

More modern options include the transponder key repair service, which has been used since 1995 and is a more secure solution than traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key, and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of a damage or loss, but they provide greater protection against theft than traditional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade key, which folds into a key fob when not in use. They're more expensive than regular keys to replace, but they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

There are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. They cost more than standard keys, and may require a locksmith's specific tools to repair car key fob.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the sudden, all you needed to do was head to your local hardware store to find a replacement. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are a variety of cars available and each comes with a unique key. Depending on the model it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you were able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used for locking the trunk or door locks, but not for starting the car.

The transponder keys repair are the other type that is frequently used. This key has a small transponder inside 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 added to cars in 1995, and can stop them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.

The first step in fixing this kind of key is to pinpoint what is causing the malfunction. Most of the time, a problem with either the key cap or key switch is the culprit. To correct this the key cap and key switch must be removed carefully using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to fix the issue. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because it will help in removing issues such as key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition piston. If the computer in the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't begin to turn on. Most cars produced in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.

The issue is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. In addition to having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a special microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to work correctly.

This process is done by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the car's computer and then entering a programming mode. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a blank from scratch, and since these tools aren't readily accessible in every locksmith shop you'll pay more for this service than with the replacement of a standard 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 can increase your cost.

Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the complicated procedures involved, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and utilizing scanners and the assurance that comes from knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys are a kind of car key with an extremely secure blade. They first came to the market in the 1990s and work to prevent vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted to stop the vehicle from being started when keys that are not the correct ones are used.

This technology does deter car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional key come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and can withstand lots of wear and tear before fading out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's relatively 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, the lock cylinder and the transponder makes it harder to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary precautions.

Key Fobs

While they're handy but key fobs can be tricky. They don't hold a charge for a long time, and they are likely to shut down when you aren't expecting it. You could end up in a embarrassing situation if the fob fails in the middle of taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. It's possible to contact a locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost you a lot of money to get your car back on the road.

The type of key and the materials used in the fob can affect the price. It also depends on the brand, which typically costs more. Some fobs are programmed by the user, while others must be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.

If your broken key repair near me fob does not function or functions infrequently, a new battery could be the answer. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost less than $10 and are available at hardware stores or big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the 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. While you can find ways to do this on your own but it's better to let an expert handle it in order to avoid any damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying an additional key and fob in the event that you already have one. If, however, you've lost both fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.