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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 wasn't a big issue. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith. However, as cars have advanced to meet the demands of technology, replacing lost keys is becoming more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the variables that impact the cost of a replacement car key. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, they could think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most popular kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more sophisticated and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them. One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard key that has been used for a long time and is the most commonly used option for cars with modern technology. These are the keys you can purchase from a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly inexpensive to copy, but could be costly to replace if they're lost or damaged. keys repair include the transponder keys, which has been in use since 1995 and is an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into 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, but they offer greater 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 regular keys, but they may cost more when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged. Lastly, there are also the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These are more expensive than standard keys and could require a locksmith's specific tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the past when you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was go to your local hardware store to obtain a replacement. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each has a different key. Depending on the type the key is replaced, it could cost you more or less than $50. Mechanical keys, also referred to as “insert and turn” keys are the simplest type. They were the keys you could replace at the hardware store for a few dollars. They do not come with transponders and are used to lock the trunk or doors but not to start the car. The transponder key is the other type one, and is the most frequently used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. The system was introduced to cars in 1995, and can stop them from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used. The first step to fix this type of key is to pinpoint what is causing the malfunction. Most of the time the issue is with the cap of the key or the switch is the cause. To fix the issue, the cap or switch will need to be removed carefully using the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as it will help in removing problems like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press. Transponder Keys Transponder keys (also known as “chip” keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft system. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition key cylinder. 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 since 1998 have this type of chip. The problem is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. In addition to having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that must be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to work properly. This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop, you'll pay more for this service than when replacing a standard mechanical key. The model and make of your vehicle is an additional factor. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which will increase your cost. Some prefer to have professional programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the intricate procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna, and using scanning devices and the assurance that comes with knowing that you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Based on the model and make you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the dealer for the installation of the new chip. Laser Cut Keys Keys Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that has an extremely secure blade. They were introduced in 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting in the event that the incorrect key is used. While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home but it's not able to stop them completely. The key's unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the proper tools and equipment can still make use of it to gain access into your car. This is because conventional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock that is more resistant to picking. The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel which can endure wear and tear for a long time before it becomes worn out. If the key breaks or wears out, it is fairly inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith. While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, lock cylinder and the transponder 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 Although they're useful but key fobs can be tricky. They won't last forever and are likely to cease functioning when you most likely don't. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially if you're packing your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after an exhausting day. You might need to contact a locksmith or a tow truck and it can cost a lot to get your car back on the road. The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob could affect the price. Brands also play a role as they can be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others require to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer. If your key fob will not function or functions intermittently, a replacement battery might be the solution. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently tear the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new one with the same orientation that the old one had. If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's better to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can skip this step and buy a replacement to save money. However, if you've lost both keys and fob, it's worth the extra expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.