Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

Not so long ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys weren't a big deal. In fact, you could probably buy a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.

However, as vehicles have advanced to meet the demands of technology and technology, replacing keys that have been lost is becoming more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. While those are the most common kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will help people know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

One of the most basic types of car keys is a standard key which has been around for a long time and is the most popular choice for newer cars. These are the keys you can buy at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Standard keys are relatively cheap to copy, however they could cost a lot to replace when they're damaged or lost.


The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been used since 1995 and is an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated 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 a loss or damage, but they are more secure against theft than traditional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade, which folds into the form of a key fob when in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they could be more expensive in the event that the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.

There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if your car key broke or stopped working, you had to visit the local hardware store to purchase new keys. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are car key repair near me of vehicles on the market and each has a different key. Depending on the model it can 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 could be replaced at a hardware store for a few dollars. They don't have an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or doors but they are not used to start the car.

The other type of key, which is the most popular one, is the transponder key. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the authenticity of the key. car key repair near me was introduced in cars starting in 1995. It prevents the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or a lost one.

The first step in fixing this kind of key is to pinpoint the cause of the problem. Most of the time the reason is due to a problem with the cap of the key or the key switch. To resolve this problem, the key cap or switch must be removed with care using a tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is essential because it can help solve issues such as key chatter. This refers to keys which register multiple inputs when they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are a vital component of your car's anti-theft security system. The microchip inside the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder that controls the ignition. If the computer in the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't be able to start. This kind of chip can be found in most cars manufactured from 1998 onwards.

The issue is that the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design, but they also contain microchips that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to function.

This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to the computer in your car and entering the programming mode. It is more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop, you're likely to pay more for this service than when replacing a standard mechanical key.

key car repair is the model and make of the car you are driving. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles which can increase the cost.

Some prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder key. This is due to the complex procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. You could save money by going directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys feature an edge that is high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s and work to stop vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, which stops the vehicle from starting when the wrong key is used.

While this technology helps stop car thieves from entering your home however, it isn't able to stop them completely. The key's unique blade and shape is difficult to duplicate, but thieves with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional keys use an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more resistant to picking.

The key is also more durable in comparison to conventional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel which can stand up to wear and wear for a long time before it wears out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively cheap to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.

While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they provide increased security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock make it more difficult to duplicate. However, they are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the necessary precautions to keep them safe.

Key Fobs

While they're handy keys can be difficult to use. They don't last forever and tend to stop working when you least expect them. You could find yourself in a compromising situation if the fob fails, especially if you are taking your trunk full of groceries or going to work after a tiring day. You may need to call locksmith services or a tow truck and it may cost a lot to get your car back on the road.

The type of key and the materials used in the fob can affect the cost. Brands are also an important factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others require to be programmed by an authorized dealer.

If your key fob isn't responding or doesn't work at all A simple battery replacement could fix the issue. The coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pry the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new one with the same orientation as the old one.

You'll need your dealer to reset it if the key fob has been damaged or is not functioning as it should. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by an expert to avoid accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing 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 have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the same time.