What Car Key Repair Cost You'll Use As Your Next Big Obsession

Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing or worse, losing your car keys was not an problem. In fact, you could probably purchase a spare from an auto parts shop or even your local locksmith.

As cars have adapted to accommodate technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is becoming more difficult and costly. Read on to learn more about what factors into the total cost of a car key replacement.

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When people think of their car keys, they might think of a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car keys can help people know what to anticipate when replacing or repair the keys.

Standard keys are the most basic kind of car keys. They have been around for a long time, and are still the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can purchase at a hardware store and hook to your keychain. Standard keys can be copied for an affordable price however, they can be expensive to replace when lost or damaged.

The most modern alternatives include the transponder keys, which has been in use since 1995 and offers an extra secure option than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but they provide greater security against theft than traditional keys.

Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They're more expensive than normal keys, but they can be more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.

There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. They are more expensive than standard keys, and may require locksmith's tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if your car key broke or was not working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to get new keys. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road and each comes with distinct keys. Based on the model, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest type. They're the ones you were in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used to lock the door locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.

The transponder key is the other type, and is the most commonly used. The key is equipped with a transponder inside the key head that transmits a coded signal the ignition system in your car to verify that the key is legitimate. The system was put in vehicles as early as 1995. 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 identify the reason for its malfunction. In most cases it is due to either a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To correct this, the key cap and key switch must be carefully removed using tools, then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch is important as it will help to eliminate issues like key chatter. This is a reference to keys that register multiple inputs when they are pressed.


Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also called "chip" keys) are an essential part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. If the computer in the car isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder it won't be able to start. The majority of cars manufactured from 1998 include this type of chip.

The issue is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. Apart from having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that needs to be programmed into your car's computer to function effectively.

This is accomplished by connecting the diagnostic tool to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that 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 important factor. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that must be used to program their vehicles, which will add cost.

Some people prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, which include cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and using scanners, and the extra security that comes from knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. You could save money by going directly to the dealership to have the new chip installed.

Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser cut keys feature a blade with a high level of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s, and are used to stop vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate and have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting in the event that the incorrect key is used.

While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them completely. The key's unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, however thieves with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more resistant to picking.

The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel and can withstand a lot of wear and tear before fading out. However, if the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.

Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they are still susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you do not take the necessary steps to protect them.

Key Fobs

While they're handy keys can be tricky. They don't last forever and are likely to cease working at the moment you least expect them. You could end up in a embarrassing situation if your device fails in the middle of taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and tiring day. It's possible to need a locksmith or a tow truck, and it may cost a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key as well as the materials used in the fob can affect the price. Brands also play a role in that they can be more expensive. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.

If your key fob does not function or functions infrequently, a new battery might be the solution. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost less than $10 and are available at hardware stores or big box retailers and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently pull the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one in the same way as the old one.

If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid accidental damage which could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can bypass this step and purchase a new one to save money. However, if you've lost both your keys and fob, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.

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Pub: 03 Oct 2024 14:30 UTC
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