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What Experts In The Field Want You To Know
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing or, even worse, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could purchase a spare key at your local auto parts store or locksmith.

Since cars have been upgraded to keep up with technological advancements replacing keys lost in the car is becoming more difficult and costly. Learn more about what factors into the overall cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When we think of our car keys, they usually think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated kinds of keys for cars that can offer enhanced security. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys will help people determine what to expect when replacing or repair keys.

One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key, which has been around for decades and remains the most common option for the latest cars. These are the keys you can purchase at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Standard keys can be copied for an affordable price, but they are expensive to replace if lost or damaged.

Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, that has been used since 1995 and offers an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade that folds down into a key fob when not in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they 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 may require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys


In the past, if your car key broke or was not working, you had to go to the local hardware store to purchase an alternative. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are a variety of vehicles on the road, and each one has an individual key. Based on the type of car it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.

Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest kind. These are the ones that you used to be in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have transponders and are used to lock the trunk or doors but not to start the car.

The transponder key is the other type that is commonly used. It has a tiny transponder in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was installed in cars starting in 1995. It prevents the ignition from being started by an unauthorised key or lost one.

The first step in fixing this kind of key is to identify what's causing the issue. Most of the time it is due to an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this problem, the key cap or the key switch will need to be removed with care using a tool. Then, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an essential part of the anti-theft system in your car. The small microchip embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits a signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder of ignition. The car will not start if the computer does not get the correct response. The majority of cars manufactured from 1998 include this type of chip.

The problem is, the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. Apart from having you can try this out than traditional mechanical keys, they have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to function properly.

This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. It is more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these tools aren't readily accessible in every locksmith shop you'll spend more than if you replace a basic mechanical key.

The model and make of your vehicle is a different factor. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.

Some prefer having a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device, as well as the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Based on the model and make you might be saving money by bringing your car directly to the dealership to arrange for the installation of your new chip.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that comes with a high-security blade. They were first introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting when the wrong keys are used.

This technology does prevent car thefts, however it doesn't stop them 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 vehicle. This is because traditional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's relatively cheap to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.

While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer more security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder, and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't make the proper precautions.

Key Fobs

Key fobs may not be reliable even though they're useful. They don't last for long, and they're likely to cease functioning when you least expect it. You could end up in an embarrassing situation if your device fails, especially if you are loading up your trunk with groceries or going to work after a long and tiring day. You might need to call for an locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost you a lot of money to get your car back on the road.

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

If your key fob does not function or functions intermittently, a replacement battery may be the solution. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and are available at hardware stores, big box retailers, and even online. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one with the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid 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. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth the cost to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same at the same time.

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