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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys It wasn't that long ago that losing or, even worse losing keys to your car was not an issue. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith. Since cars have been upgraded to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the variables that influence the cost of replacing a car key. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, they usually think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced types of car keys that can provide greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them. Standard keys are the most basic type of car keys. They have been around for many years, and are still the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase from a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are affordable to duplicate, but can be expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged. key repairs are a modern option that has been available since 1995. They are an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, but they offer greater protection against theft than standard keys. Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold into a keyfob when not being used. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be even more costly if the shank or handle of the key is damaged. There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' special tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the past the past, if your car's key was damaged or stopped working, you needed to visit the local hardware store and purchase new keys. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each one has its own key. Depending on the model it may cost more or less than 50 dollars. Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also called “insert-and-turn” keys. These were the keys that you could replace at the hardware shop for a few cents. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the door or trunk locks but not for starting the car. The transponder keys are the other type that is commonly used. This key has an internal transponder within the head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to confirm that the key is legitimate. key repair near me was added to cars in 1995, and can stop the ignition from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used. To fix this type of key, the first step is to determine what's 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 switch need to be carefully removed using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to fix the problem. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because it will help in removing problems like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press. Transponder Keys Transponder keys (also called “chip” keys) are a vital component of your car's anti-theft system. The small microchip embedded in the plastic head of the key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. If the car's computer doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't start. The majority of cars manufactured since 1998 have this type of chip. Problem is, they're more expensive to replace. In addition to having distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they contain a unique microchip that needs to be programmed into your car's computer to work effectively. Connecting a diagnostic tool with your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is how you do this. It is more complicated than just cutting a blank from scratch, and since these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop you'll spend more than when replacing the basic mechanical key. Another aspect is the make and model of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars which can increase the cost. Some people prefer that an expert program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures involved, including cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and utilizing scanning devices as well as the assurance that comes from knowing you have a skilled professional working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed. Laser Cut Keys Keys Laser cut keys are a kind of car key with a high-security blade. They were introduced in 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are more difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from being started if keys that aren't the right ones are used. While this technology can protect against car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and design of the key is difficult to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy 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 traditional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and can endure wear and tear for a long period before it begins to wear out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith. While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder, and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the proper security measures to ensure their safety. car key fob repairs are not always reliable, even though they are practical. They won't last forever and often stop functioning when you least expect them. You may find yourself in an embarrassing situation if your device fails, especially if you are taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. You may need to call a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road. A variety of factors affect the price of a fob. These include the type of key it is made of and its materials. It also depends on the brand, which typically costs more. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle. If your key fob doesn't respond 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. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores, big box retailers, and online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation that the old one had. You'll need your dealer to change the program if your key fob is damaged or is not functioning properly. You can do it yourself, but it's better to leave it to a professional to avoid accidental damage that could lead to expensive 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 key and fob together, it's worth the cost to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the same time.