The Best Car Key Repair Cost Experts Are Doing Three Things
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
Not so long ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys wasn't a big deal. In fact, you could buy a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.
However, as cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys has become more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the variables that impact the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, many think of a simple metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. While these are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars however, there are other kinds that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car keys can help people know what to expect when replacing or repair them.
Standard keys are the most basic type of car key. They've been in use for decades, and they remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are the keys you can buy at an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Standard keys are relatively affordable to duplicate, but can be expensive to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a new alternative that has been in use since 1995. They offer a more secure alternative to 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 loss or damage, however they offer greater protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are another option. They fold down into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. They cost more than standard keys, however they are more expensive if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
Lastly, there are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote key fob repair starts. These are more expensive than standard keys and may require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days 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 to find a replacement. The process is a bit more complicated today. There are many kinds of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic kind. They're the ones you were capable of replacing at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not have a transponder in them and are used for Experts locking the door or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder keys are the other type, and is the most commonly used. It has a tiny transponder located in the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. This system was installed in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops the ignition from being started by an unauthorized key or a lost one.
The first step to fix this type of key is to pinpoint the cause of the problem. In most cases the reason is due to a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix the issue, the key cap or key switch will need to be removed with the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an essential part of the anti-theft system in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the car key transmits the signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition piston. The car will not start if the computer can't receive the correct response. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The issue is that the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include a microchip that needs to be programmed into the car's computer for them to work.
Connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is how you do this. This procedure can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and, because these devices aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.
Another aspect is the model and make of your car. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their vehicles which can increase the cost.
Some prefer having a professional program their transponder keys. It is due to the 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 will be working on your vehicle. Based on the make and model, you may be in a position to save money by going directly to the dealership to arrange for the installation of your new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have a blade with a high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from starting if keys that are not the correct ones are used.
This technology does hinder car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key are difficult to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the proper tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that's easy for a burglar to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is fairly inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however, they provide greater 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
While they're handy keys can be difficult to use. They won't last forever and are likely to cease functioning when you most likely don't. You may find yourself in a compromising situation if your device fails, especially if you are loading up your trunk with groceries or going to work after a long and tiring day. It's possible to need an emergency car key repair locksmith or tow truck, and it may cost you a significant amount to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key and the materials used in the fob could affect the cost. Brands also play a role in that they can be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user, while others need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob will not work or is working intermittently, a simple replacement battery may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of your key fob key repair and then insert the new one in the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. While there are ways to do this yourself but it's better to have an expert handle it in order to avoid any damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can skip this step and purchase a replacement to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's worth it to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the same at the same time.
