Your Family Will Be Thankful For Getting This Car Key Repair Cost
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
Not so long ago misplacing or even losing your car keys was not an issue. You could purchase an extra key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
However, as vehicles have evolved to accommodate technological advances the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and expensive. Find out more about what factors into the total cost of car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they could imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most commonly used types of car keys, there are many other kinds that are more advanced and have enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars can help people anticipate what to expect when replacing or repair the keys.
Keys that are standard are the simplest type of car key. They've been around for many years, and remain the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys that you can buy at a hardware shop and connect to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are cheap to copy, however they can be expensive to replace when they're damaged or lost.
Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, that has been used since 1995 and provides an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in 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 damage or loss, but they provide greater protection against theft than conventional keys.
Another option is the switchblade key, which folds into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be even more costly if the shank or handle of the key is damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. These are more expensive than standard keys and could require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to your local hardware store and obtain a replacement. It's a little more complicated now. There are many different types of cars available and each comes with a unique key. Depending on the model it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. They're the ones you were able to replace 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 to start the car.
The transponder key is the other type that is commonly used. It has a tiny transponder 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 introduced to vehicles in 1995 and can prevent them from being started if an unauthorized or lost key is used.
The first step to fix this kind of key is to pinpoint what's causing the issue. In most cases the issue is with the cap of the key or the switch is the reason. To resolve this issue, the cap or the key switch must be removed with care using the appropriate tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as it will help in removing problems like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition piston. The car won't start if the computer can't receive the correct response. This kind of chip can be used in all cars built from 1998 onwards.
Problem is, they're more expensive to replace. They are not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include a microchip that needs to be programmed into the car's computer in order to function.
This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a blank from scratch, and since these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop, you'll be charged more than with the replacement of a standard mechanical key.
Another factor is the model and make of your car. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that needs to be used in order to program their vehicles, which can add cost.
Some people prefer to have an expert do the programming of their transponder key. 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 peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your vehicle. You could save money if you go directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys feature an edge that is high degree of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s, and are used to prevent vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted to stop the vehicle from being started in the event that keys that aren't the right ones are used.
While this technology works to protect against car thieves, it doesn't prevent them from doing so completely. The unique blade and design of the key are difficult to duplicate, however burglars can still use it with the right tools to gain access to your vehicle. remote car key repair is because traditional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. However, laser keys come with a sidewinder lock cylinder which is more resistant to picking.
The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that can withstand lots of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key does wear out or is accidentally cut in half, it's relatively inexpensive to replace it by a seasoned locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer more security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder, and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable even though they're practical. They can't keep a charge for a long time, and they are likely to stop functioning when you most likely won't notice to notice. A malfunctioning device can put you in a difficult situation, especially if you're loading your car with groceries or heading to work after an exhausting day. You may need to contact locksmith services or a tow truck, and it can cost you a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob could affect the price. Brands are also an important factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others require to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.
If your key fob will not work or is working intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob and then insert the new one with the same orientation.
It is necessary for your dealer to reprogramme it if your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly. You can do this yourself, but it's better to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you could skip this step and purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth the cost to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the exact same at the same time.