Car Key Repair Cost Tips From The Top In The Business
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys weren't a big deal. In fact, you could probably purchase a spare from an auto parts store or your local locksmith.
However, as cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Find out more about the elements that impact the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When we think of our car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. While those are the most common types of car keys but there are a variety of types that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people know 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 decades and remains the most commonly used option for the latest cars. These are the keys you can purchase from an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Standard keys are relatively affordable to duplicate, but could be costly to replace if they're lost or damaged.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been in use since 1995 and offers a more secure solution than traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but offer greater protection from theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold up into an accessory keyfob when not used. key repair car cost more than regular keys, however they may cost more if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
There are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or stopped working, you had to go to the local hardware store to get an alternative. Today things are more complicated. There are a variety of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct 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 type. They're the ones you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have a transponder inside them and are intended for locking the door locks or trunk locks but not for starting the car.
The other kind of key, which is the most commonly used in use is the transponder keys. 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 legitimacy of the key. The system was put in vehicles as early as 1995. It protects the ignition from being started using an unauthorized key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases it is a problem with the key cap or key switch is the cause. To fix the issue, the key cap or the key switch will need to be removed with an instrument. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is important as it will help to remove issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys that register multiple inputs when they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are a vital component of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer does not get the right response. Most cars built from 1998 include this type of chip.
Problem is, they're more expensive to replace. They're not just different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have 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 car's computer and entering a programming mode. This process can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you might pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another factor is the model and make of your vehicle. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used to program their vehicles, which can add cost.
Some prefer having professional programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device, and also the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car. You could save money if you go directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys feature a blade with a high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s and help to stop vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and have transponder chips inside their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting in the event that keys that are not the correct ones are used.
This technology helps prevent car thefts, however it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key are hard to duplicate, however burglars can still use it with the right tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than traditional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and is able to withstand wear and tear for a long time before it wears out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's relatively inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, lock cylinder and the transponder make it more difficult to duplicate. They are still at risk of being stolen or lost if you don't make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful, key fobs can be tricky. They aren't always reliable and tend to stop functioning when you least expect them. You may find yourself in an embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions, especially if you are loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. You might need to call a locksmith or tow truck and it could cost you a considerable amount 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 can be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user, while others must be reprogrammed by a dealer.
If your key fob isn't responding or intermittently works, a simple battery replacement might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently break off the two halves of the key fob, then insert the new one with the same orientation.
You'll need your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob has been damaged or is no longer working properly. You can do this yourself, but it's better to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage which could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you could bypass this step and purchase a new one to save money. If, however, you've lost both your fob and keys it's worth the cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.