Car Key Repair Cost Tips From The Top In The Industry
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that losing or, even worse, losing your car keys wasn't an problem. You could buy an extra key at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
However, as cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances and technology, replacing keys that have been lost is becoming more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that affect the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, many imagine a basic 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 sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences 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 car keys is a standard one, that has been in use for a long time and is 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 standard size can be copied at the cost of a small amount however they can be costly to replace when lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a modern option that has been around since 1995. They are an extra-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 costly to replace in the event of loss or damage, however they offer greater protection against theft than standard keys.
Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold up into the form of a keyfob when they are not being used. Read Even more are a little more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly when the handle or shank of the key has been damaged.
Additionally, there are smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These are more expensive than standard keys and may require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store and find a replacement. It's a little more complicated today. There are numerous kinds of cars available and each comes with an individual key. Depending on its type 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 door locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder keys are the other type one, and is the most commonly used. This key has an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to confirm that the key is in fact valid. This system was installed in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It protects them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.
The first step to fix this kind of key is to identify what's causing the issue. In most cases, a problem with either the cap of the key or the switch is the cause. To resolve this issue, the key cap or key switch will need to be removed with an instrument. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your vehicle. The small microchip embedded inside the plastic head of the car key transmits 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 present in the majority of cars made from 1998 onwards.
The issue is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the car's computer for them to work.
This process is done by connecting a diagnostic tool to the car's computer and then entering a programming mode. This process can be more complicated than cutting a blank since these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you may be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another consideration is the make and model of the car you are driving. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.
Some prefer having a professional program their transponder keys. This is because of the intricate procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna, and using scanning devices and the assurance that comes from knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You could save money if you go directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys come with blades that have a high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting when the wrong keys are used.
While this technology can protect against car thieves, it doesn't prevent them entirely. car remote key repair near me and shape of the key is difficult to duplicate, however a burglar can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your car. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and is able to withstand wear and wear for a long time before it begins to wear out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it's fairly inexpensive to repair it by locksmiths.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still at risk of being stolen or lost in the event that you fail to take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
While they're handy, key fobs can be finicky. They don't last forever and often stop working at the moment you least expect them. You could end up in a compromising situation if your device fails in the middle of carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. You may need to contact a locksmith or a tow truck and it may cost a lot to get your car back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob, such as the kind of key it comes with and its materials. Brands are also an important factor as they can be more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob does not work or works intermittently, a simple replacement battery could be the answer. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pull the two parts of the key fob apart and insert the new battery with the same orientation as the old one.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function correctly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can skip this step and simply purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same at the same time.