10 Tips To Build Your Car Key Repair Cost Empire
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or, even worse losing keys to your car was not an issue. You could buy keys at your local auto parts store or locksmith.
However, as vehicles have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys has become more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the factors that influence the total cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they may think of a basic metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car keys that can provide greater security. Knowing the differences between different types of keys for cars can help people know what to expect when it comes to replacing or repairing keys.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard one, that has been in use for decades and is still the most common option for newer cars. These are the keys you can buy at the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Standard keys are relatively cheap to copy, however they can be expensive to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder key that has been used since 1995 and is an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but they offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.
Another option is the switchblade key that folds down into the form of a key fob when in use. They cost more than standard keys, but they can be more expensive when 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 start. They cost more than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or stopped working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to purchase a new one. Nowadays things are more complicated. There are numerous kinds of cars available and each comes with a unique key. Depending on its type, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. These keys were the ones you could replace at the hardware store for a few cents. 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 other type of key, which is the most common one is the transponder keys. It has a transponder in the key head that transmits a coded signal to your car's ignition system to verify that the key is valid. The system was put in cars starting in 1995. It prevents the ignition from being started by an unauthorized key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to determine what is causing it to malfunction. In most cases, the cause is due to a problem with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this issue problem, the cap of the key and key switch must be carefully removed using tools, then cleaned and lubricated to fix the issue. Lubricating the switch is important because it can help eliminate issues like key chatter. This is the case with keys which allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The small microchip embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer doesn't receive the correct response. Most cars produced since 1998 have this type of chip.
The issue is that they're more expensive to replace. They also have distinct design from traditional mechanical keys, they have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work correctly.
This process is done by connecting a diagnostic tool to the car's computer and then entering a programming mode. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a new blank, and because the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop, you're likely to be charged more than when replacing a basic mechanical key.
key repairs near me is the model and make of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which will increase the cost.
Some prefer having professional programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, including cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing a scanning device, and the extra assurance that comes with knowing that you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealer to have your new chip installed.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys come with an edge that is high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from starting in the event that keys that are not the correct ones are used.
This technology can deter car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key are hard to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the right tools to gain access to your car. This is because conventional keys have a standard lock that is easy for burglars to pick. But laser keys have a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more resistant to picking.
The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can endure wear and wear for a long time before it begins to wear out. If the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by an experienced locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they offer more security. The combination of the blade design, the 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 take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful but key fobs can be difficult to use. They won't last forever and often stop working at the moment you least expect them. A malfunctioning device can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're loading your trunk with groceries or leaving for work after an exhausting day. It's possible to need a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a significant amount to get your car back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob could affect the price. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Some fobs are programmed by the person using them, while others must be reprogrammed to the vehicle by an authorized dealer.
If your key fob is unresponsive or intermittently works If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery could fix the issue. These batteries are typically $10 or less and are available at hardware stores, big box retailers, and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently break apart the two halves of your key fob and then insert the new one with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's best to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can skip this step and simply purchase a replacement to save money. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's worth the cost to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the exact same at the same time.