15 Unexpected Facts About Car Key Repair Cost The Words You've Never Learned
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys weren't an issue. You could buy a spare key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
However, as vehicles have advanced to meet the demands of technology the process of replacing keys is becoming more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that influence the total cost of car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think about their car keys, they often think of a simple metal key that opens doors and turns on the engine. While these are the most popular types of car keys but there are a variety of kinds that are more sophisticated and have enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will help people to know what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic types of keys for cars is a standard key which has been around for decades and is still the most commonly used option for newer cars. These are keys that you can purchase from an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are inexpensive to copy, but could be costly to replace if they're lost or damaged.
More modern options include the transponder keys, which has been used since 1995 and offers a more secure solution than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of damage or loss, but they are more secure against theft than traditional keys.
car keys repairs near me is the switchblade key which folds up into a key fob when not in use. They are more expensive than normal keys, however they are more expensive if the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.
There are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when your car key broke or stopped working, you only had to visit the local hardware store and purchase new keys. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are several types of cars in circulation and each comes with a distinct key. Depending on the model, it could cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest type. They're the ones you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not contain a transponder within them and are intended for locking the trunk or door locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder key is the other type that is commonly used. It has a tiny transponder inside the head of the key that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. This feature was added to vehicles in 1995 and prevents them from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used.
The first step to fix this type of key is to pinpoint what is causing the malfunction. In the majority of cases the reason 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 switch need to be carefully removed using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch is crucial because it can help remove issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys that register multiple inputs when pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your car. The microchip inside the head of the key transmits signals to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. The car will not start if the computer does not get the correct response. Most cars produced in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The problem is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They are not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have an electronic chip that must be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to function.
Connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. It is more complicated than simply cutting a blank from scratch, and since the tools aren't accessible in every locksmith shop you're likely to pay more for this service than with the replacement of a standard mechanical key.
car keys repairs near me and model of your vehicle is a different aspect. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used in order to program their vehicles, which can increase your cost.
Some prefer having an expert 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 security that comes from knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Based on the make and model you may be saving money by visiting the car dealership to install your new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with a high-security blade. They came on the scene in the 1990s, and are used to stop vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate than traditional key designs and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from being started if keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology works to stop car thieves from entering your home but it's not able to stop them completely. The unique blade design is difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to get into your car. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that's easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable compared to conventional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel and is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. But, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost in the event that you fail to take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable, even though they are practical. They don't last forever, and they tend to stop functioning when you least expect it. You could find yourself in a compromising situation if the fob fails particularly when you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a tiring day. You might need to call for locksmith services or a tow truck and it could 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 may affect the cost. It also depends on the manufacturer which is usually more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user while others need to be reprogrammed by a dealer.
If your key fob will not work or is working infrequently, a new 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 tear the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new one in the same way as the old one.
It's up to your dealer change the program if your key fob is damaged or is not functioning as it should. You can do it yourself, but it's better to leave it to an expert to avoid accidental damage which could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and simply buy a replacement to save money. If, however, you've lost both keys and fob, it's worth the extra expense to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.