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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys In the past, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys was not an issue. In fact, you could find a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith. As cars have adapted to adapt to technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is becoming more difficult and costly. Learn more about the factors that affect the cost of a replacement car key. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, they may think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people to know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them. One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard one, which has been around for decades and is still the most common option for the latest cars. These are the keys you can purchase from the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Standard keys can be copied for a relatively low cost however they can be costly to replace when lost or damaged. Transponder keys are a modern alternative that has been in use since 1995. They are a more secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of loss or damage, however they are more secure against theft than conventional keys. Another option is the switchblade key which folds up into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They're more expensive than normal keys, but they may cost more if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged. Lastly, there are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' specific tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the past the past, if your car's key was damaged or stopped working, you only had to visit the local hardware store to purchase a new one. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are a variety of cars on the road and each has a unique key. Depending on its type it can cost more or less than 50 dollars. Mechanical keys, also referred to as “insert and turn” keys are the most basic kind. These keys were the ones you could buy from the hardware shop for a few cents. They do not come with an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car. The transponder keys are the other type one, and is the most commonly used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the head of the key that sends a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. This feature was added to cars in 1995 and prevents them from being started if an unauthorized or lost 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 either a problem with the key cap or the key switch. To resolve this issue, the key cap or switch must be removed with the appropriate tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is crucial as it will help to eliminate issues like key chatter. This is the case with keys that register multiple inputs when they are pressed. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also known as “chip keys”, are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the cylinder of ignition. The car will not start if the computer can't receive the correct response. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip. The issue is that they're more expensive to replace. In addition to having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a special microchip that must be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work effectively. This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the computer in your car and entering the programming mode. This process is more complex than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you may have to pay more than if were to replace the mechanical key. The model and make of your vehicle is a different aspect. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used to program their vehicles, which could increase your cost. Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna, and using a scanning device and the assurance that comes with knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You may be able save money if you go directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed. Keys Laser Cut Keys Laser cut keys come with a blade with a high degree of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. car key repair cost are more difficult to duplicate than traditional key designs and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started in the event that the wrong keys are used. While this technology can stop car thieves from entering your home but it's not able to stop them from doing so completely. The unique blade and design of the key is difficult to copy, but burglars can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your car. This is because traditional keys have the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. However, car key repair cost come with a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick. The key's design is also more durable than traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel and can withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is affordable to have it repaired by a locksmith. While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't make the proper precautions. Key Fobs Key fobs aren't always reliable even though they're useful. They don't hold a charge forever, and they tend to stop functioning when you most likely won't notice it. You may find yourself in a embarrassing situation if the fob fails particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a exhausting day. You may have to call a locksmith or a tow truck and it could cost you a considerable amount to get your car back on the road. The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob may affect the cost. 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 doesn't work at all If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery could fix the issue. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for as little as $10. To replace the battery, gently break off the two halves of the key fob and insert the new one in the same orientation. It is necessary for your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob is damaged or is no longer functioning properly. Although you may be able to do this yourself, it's best to have a professional handle it to prevent any accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying a new key and fob in the event that you already have one. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same time.