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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys In the past the loss of car keys weren't an issue. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith. As cars have adapted to accommodate technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that affect the cost of replacing a car key. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced kinds of keys for cars that offer greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people understand what to expect when they need to replace or repair them. One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard key that has been in use for a long time and is the most popular choice for the latest cars. These are keys that you can purchase from a hardware shop and attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly cheap to copy, however they could cost a lot to replace when they're damaged or lost. Transponder keys are an innovative option that has been available since 1995. They provide a more secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but provide greater security against theft than traditional keys. Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They cost more than standard keys, but they can be more expensive if the shank of the key or the handle is damaged. Lastly, there are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' special tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the past the past, if your car's key broke or stopped working, you only had to go to the local hardware store to purchase an alternative. Nowadays things are more complicated. There are numerous kinds of cars available and each comes with an individual key. Depending on the model it can cost more or less than 50 dollars. 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 do not have an electronic transponder, and are used to lock the trunk or doors but they are not used to start the car. The transponder key is the other type, and is the most frequently used. It has an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal to your car's ignition system to verify that the key is legitimate. The system was introduced to vehicles in 1995 and can prevent the ignition from starting if an unauthorized or lost key is used. To fix this type of key, the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. In the majority of cases the issue is with the cap of the key or the switch is the cause. To fix the issue, the key cap or the key switch will need to be removed with care using a tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press. Transponder Keys Transponder keys (also known as “chip” keys) are an essential part of your car's anti-theft security system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the key transmits a signal to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder of ignition. The car won't start if the computer does not receive the correct response. www.thekeylab.co.uk of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998. The issue is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the car's computer in order to function. This process is done by connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering a programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these devices are not readily accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to pay more for this service than when replacing a standard mechanical key. Another factor is the model and make of your car. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars, which increases your cost. Some people prefer that professional programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the intricate procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using scanning devices and the security that comes with knowing that you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealership to get the new chip installed. Keys Laser Cut Keys Laser cut keys are a type of car key that has an extremely secure blade. They first came to the market in the 1990s and work to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted to stop the vehicle from being started when keys that aren't the right ones are used. This technology does hinder car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The key's unique blade and design is difficult to duplicate, but anyone 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. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock which is more resistant to picking. The key is also more durable compared to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can stand up to wear and tear for a long period before it becomes worn out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by a professional locksmith. While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they provide increased security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the necessary steps to protect them. Key Fobs Even though they're convenient, key fobs can be tricky. They won't last forever and often stop working when you least expect them. A malfunctioning device can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're putting in your trunk with food items or heading off to work after an extended day. You may have to call an emergency locksmith or tow truck, and it may cost you a considerable amount to get your car back on the road. A variety of factors affect the price of a fob, such as the type of key it is made of and its materials. It also depends on the manufacturer, which typically costs more. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle. If your key fob does not work or is working intermittently, a simple replacement battery might be the solution. 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 pry off the two halves of your key fob and insert the new one in the same orientation. It is necessary for your dealer to reset it if the key fob is damaged or is no longer working properly. Although you may be able to do this yourself but it's better to let an expert handle it in order to avoid 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 key and fob together, it's well worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the exact same time.