What Car Key Repair Cost Should Be Your Next Big Obsession
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
In the past misplacing or even losing your car keys wasn't an issue. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.
However, as vehicles have advanced to meet the demands of technology the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Read on to learn more about what factors into the total cost of car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they may think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most popular kinds of keys for cars but there are a variety of kinds that are more sophisticated and have 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, which has been around for decades and is still the most common option for the latest cars. These are the keys that you can buy at a hardware shop and connect to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace when they're damaged or lost.
Transponder keys are an innovative alternative that has been in use since 1995. They provide an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of a loss or damage, however they offer greater protection against theft than conventional keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade key which folds up into the form of a key fob when in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be more costly if the shank or handle of the key is damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store and find an alternative. Today things are a bit more complicated. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road, and each one has an individual key. Depending on the model, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys, are the most basic kind. These are the ones that you were capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the door or trunk locks but not for starting the car.
The transponder key is a different type one, and is the most frequently used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the authenticity of the key. This system was installed in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It stops the ignition from being started using an unauthorised key or a lost one.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. In the majority of cases the issue is with the cap on the key or switch is the reason. To resolve this issue, the key cap or key switch will need to be removed carefully using a tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as this can help to eliminate issues such as 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 an electrical signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder that controls the ignition. The car won't start if the computer doesn't receive the correct response. Most cars produced in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The issue is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They also have an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a special microchip that must be programmed into your car's computer to work effectively.
This process is done by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the computer in your car and entering a programming mode. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a new blank, and because these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop you're likely to pay more for this service than if you replace the basic mechanical key.
Another factor is the make and model of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.
Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove 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. It is possible to save money if you go directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys are a type of car key that has a high-security blade. They were introduced in the 1990s, and are used to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting when keys that aren't the right ones are used.
This technology helps deter car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The key's unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, however thieves with the right tools and equipment can still use it to get into your car. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that's easy for a burglar to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more resistant to picking.
The design of the key is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel and can stand up to wear and tear for a long time before it begins to wear 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, the transponder and the lock makes it harder to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful, key fobs can be tricky. They don't last forever, and they tend to cease functioning at the moment you most likely won't notice it. You could find yourself in a compromising situation if your fob malfunctions, especially if you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or going to work after a tiring day. car key fob repairs might need to call a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a significant amount to get your vehicle back on the road.
There are many factors that affect the price of a fob, including the type of key it is made of and its materials. It is also dependent on the brand that is more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob will not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery might be the solution. These batteries are typically less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pull the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the previous one.
It is necessary for your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob is damaged or isn't working properly. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and purchase a replacement to save money. However, if you've lost both fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.