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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys It wasn't that long ago that losing or, even worse losing your car keys was not a big issue. You could buy a spare key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith. Since cars have been upgraded to keep up with technological advancements replacement of keys that have been lost is more complicated and costly. Learn more about what factors into the total cost of car key replacement. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, they may think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are many more advanced types of car keys that can offer enhanced security. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them. Keys that are standard are the most basic kind of car key. They've been in use for a long time, and remain the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can purchase at a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied at an affordable price however they can be costly to replace in the event of loss or damaged. Transponder keys are an innovative option that has been available since 1995. They provide an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. car key repair cost are embedded in the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but they offer greater protection from theft than conventional keys. Another option is the switchblade key that folds down into the form of a key fob when in use. These are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, but could be more expensive 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 keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' special tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the old days, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store and get an alternative. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are many different types of cars on the road and each comes with an individual key. Based on the model that you are replacing, it could cost more or less than $50. Mechanical keys, also referred to as “insert and turn” keys are the most basic kind. They are the keys that you were able to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the door locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car. The other type of key, that is the most commonly used utilized is the transponder key. The key is equipped with an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal the ignition system in your car to verify that the key is valid. This system was added to vehicles in 1995 and prevents the ignition from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used. To fix this kind of key, the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases the reason is due to either an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To resolve this problem, the key cap or switch will need to be removed with the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is important 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 referred to as “chip keys”, are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your vehicle. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer can't get the correct response. This type of chip is found in most cars manufactured since 1998. The issue is that they're more expensive to replace. They're not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include a microchip that needs to be programmed into the vehicle's computer for them to function. Connecting a diagnostic device to the computer in your car, and then entering the programming mode is the way to accomplish this. This procedure can be more complex than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you might be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key. The make and model of your vehicle is a different important factor. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used to program their vehicles, which could increase the cost. Some prefer to have a professional program their transponder keys. This is because of the intricate procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using a scanning device, and the extra security that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. Based on the model and make you may be saving money by bringing your car directly to the dealership to arrange to install your new chip. Laser Cut Keys Keys Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They first came to the market in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted, preventing the vehicle from being started in the event that keys that aren't the right ones are used. While this technology can deter car thieves, it doesn't prevent them completely. The key's unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, however anyone with the right tools and equipment can still use it to get into your car. This is because traditional key come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, come with the sidewinder cylinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick. The key's design is more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that can withstand lots of wear and tear before fading out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's affordable to repair it by a locksmith. Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade, the transponder and the lock make it more difficult to duplicate. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you do not take the proper security measures to ensure their safety. Key Fobs While they're handy keys can be tricky. They aren't always reliable and tend to stop working at the moment you most likely don't. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in an embarrassing situation, especially if you're loading your trunk full of groceries or leaving for work after a long day. It's possible to need an emergency locksmith or tow truck and it could cost a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road. The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob could influence the cost. It is also dependent 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 isn't responding or is not working, a simple battery replacement might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries can be found at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently tear the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one in the same way that the old one had. If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll have to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's best to leave it to an expert to avoid accidental damage which could lead to expensive repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing an additional key and fob if you already have one. However, if you've lost both fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.