Car Keys | Things You Should Know

Let’s be honest. When was the last time you paid any heed to your car key maintenance? the thing which gives you the very privilege of getting in your car is probably the most ignored when it comes to maintenance. To this we say; No More! In this blog post, we will show you some “Key” tips, tricks and hacks which will definitely come in handy.

Car keys or key fobs, as they are now called come in various types, shapes and sizes. Let’s have a look at some of the most common ones.

The Basic Car Key

The old school, bare-bones, plain-jane keys. Machine cut (or laser cut, in more modern cars) and almost no security features. Back when these were in use, getting a replacement involved a visit to your local locksmith who would file you a new key in exchange for a meagre charge. These types of keys are hilariously easy to duplicate which is why nicking a car was so easy back in the days.

The Remote Car Key

These have some security features integrated into them. A transponder inside the key emits either infrared or radio waves which transmits a coded message that signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the car. Considered a tier-1 security key which still finds use today. The key runs off CR44 type batteries which require replacement every 3-4 years. A replacement for such key requires sending the car with the keys for reprogramming which can turn out quite expensive, so avoid losing your keys.

The Smart Car Key

Yes, in the era of smartphone, smart TVs why not a smart car key? These are more like a fob than an actual key. The car has sensors which sense the presence of the “key” and automatically enables unlocking the car without physically “unlocking the car”. These are meant to stay in your pocket and keep your hands free. You can even start your car without actually inserting the key into the tumbler (if there is any).

Keeping the traditions alive, you still get a conventional key in a form of a shank or a blade within the key fob (as a backup, of course). Smart keys are one of the safest and most secure keys. Using dynamic codes against static codes, smart keys are almost impossible to hack and require special equipment to reprogram.

Word of caution though, avoid losing your smart keys, as replacing them can be a serious money pit which can also include replacing the whole engine management system.

Car Keys Not Working | Know This

1. If it is a non-responsive key fob, your first move should be replacing the battery, which turns out is the most commonly reported solution. CR32 and CR44 is the most common battery using in a car key remote.
2. If in case you lose your smart key. A replacement can get a bit expensive as it requires programming a set of new keys to sync up with the onboard engine management system.
3. If your car has an ignition barrel (where you insert the key), Avoid attaching extra keys/weight to the key ring. This can cause the tumbler inside the barrel to wear out prematurely.
4. Lubricating the ignition barrel with a dab of graphite is a smart idea that extends the life of the key as well as the barrel.
5. Do not use your keys as a pry tool or for any other purpose, that it is not meant for. Keep your smart car key away from moisture and humidity.