15 Amazing Facts About Car Key Repair Cost You've Never Seen
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or, even worse, losing your car keys was not a big issue. In fact, you could probably buy a spare at an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.
As cars have evolved to keep up with technological advancements replacement of keys that have been lost is becoming more difficult and costly. Learn more about the factors that influence the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. While those are the most commonly used types of car keys, there are many other kinds that are more sophisticated and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys can help people understand what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of keys for cars is a standard key that has been in use for decades and remains the most common option for the latest cars. These are the keys that you can purchase at an establishment that sells hardware and connect to your keychain. Keys of standard size can be copied for an affordable price however they can be costly to replace when lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a new alternative that has been in use since 1995. They provide a more secure alternative to traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become lost or damaged, but offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into a keyfob when not being used. They're more expensive than standard keys, but they may cost more if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
Additionally, there are what google did to me with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. They cost more than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key broke or stopped working, you had to go to the local hardware store and purchase a new one. It's a little more complicated now. There are several types of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the type of car it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. These are the ones that you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store to change your pocket. They don't have a transponder inside them and are used for locking the trunk or door locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder key is a different type, and is the most commonly used. It has a tiny transponder located in the head of the key that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the authenticity of the key. The system was put in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It stops them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.
To fix this type of key the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. Most of the time the issue is with the key cap or key switch is the cause. To fix this problem, the cap of the key and switch need to be removed with an instrument, and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch is essential as it will help to remove issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys which register multiple inputs when pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The microchip inside the plastic head of the key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring around the cylinder that controls the ignition. If the computer of the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder it won't begin to turn on. This kind of chip is found in most cars manufactured from 1998 onwards.
Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. Apart from having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into your car's computer to function properly.
This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering a programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and due to the fact that these devices are not readily accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to pay more for this service than when replacing a basic mechanical key.
Another aspect is the make and model of the car you are driving. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their cars which can increase the cost.
Some people prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device, as well as the security you gain from knowing that a professional is working on your car. Depending on the make and model you might be able to save money by visiting the dealer for the installation of the new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have a blade with a high degree of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s and help to combat vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, which stops the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key is used.
While this technology can stop car thieves from entering your home however, it isn't able to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are difficult to copy, but burglars can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock that is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The key's design is also more durable than traditional keys. company website is made of hardened steel, and is able to endure wear and tear for a long period before it begins to wear out. If the key wears out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively cheap to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
While laser cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer more security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you don't make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable, even though they are practical. They aren't always reliable and tend to stop working when you least expect them. You could find yourself in an embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. You may have to call a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a significant amount to get your vehicle back on the road.
A variety of factors affect the price of a fob. These include the kind of key it comes with and its materials. Brands also play a role in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others must be programmed by a dealer.
If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a replacement battery might be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores or big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob and then insert the new battery with the same orientation.
It is necessary for your dealer to change the program if your key fob is damaged or is no longer working properly. Although you may be able to do this yourself but it's better to have an expert handle it in order to avoid any accidental damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing an additional key and fob if you already have one. If, however, you've lost both your fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.