5 Car Key Repair Cost Lessons From Professionals
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or, even worse, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could buy a spare key at the local auto parts store or locksmith.
Since cars have been upgraded to accommodate technological advances replacement of keys that have been lost is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that influence the cost of replacing a car key.
Basic Keys
When we think of our car keys, they usually think of a simple metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car keys that can offer enhanced security. Understanding the differences between various types of keys for cars will help people determine what to expect when replacing or repair keys.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard key that has been in use for a long time and is the most popular choice for newer cars. These are keys that you can purchase at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Keys of the standard type are inexpensive to copy, but can be expensive to replace when they're damaged or lost.
More modern options include the transponder key which has been in use since 1995 and provides security over traditional keys. These have microchips in the handle of the key and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of loss or damage, but they provide greater protection against theft than traditional keys.
Another option is the switchblade key, which folds into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They cost more than regular keys to replace, but they may cost more when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
Lastly, there are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and require locksmiths' 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 the local hardware store and find an alternative. Nowadays, things are a little more complicated. There are a variety of vehicles on the road and each has a unique key. Based on the model that you are replacing, it could cost you more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you used to be capable of replacing at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not have a transponder and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but not to start the car.
key fob repair near me are the other type that is commonly used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder located in the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system in your car to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was introduced to cars in 1995 and prevents them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to figure out what's causing the malfunction. In most cases, a problem with either the cap of the key or the switch is the culprit. To fix this the key cap and switch need to be carefully removed using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the issue. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as it will help in removing problems like key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs 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 head of the plastic key transmits an electrical signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. If the computer of the car does not receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. Most cars produced from 1998 include this type of chip.
The problem is, the same factor that makes these kinds of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They also have a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to function effectively.
Connecting a diagnostic device to your car's computer, and then entering the programming mode is how you do this. It is more complicated than simply cutting a new blank, and due to the fact that these devices are not readily available in every locksmith shop, you're likely to spend more than if you replace a standard mechanical key.
Another aspect is the make and model of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their cars and increase the cost.
Some prefer to have a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures involved, including cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna and utilizing scanners as well as the security that comes with knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. You may be able save money if you go directly to the dealership to have your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys have an edge that is high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are difficult to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded within their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, which stops the vehicle from starting when the wrong key is used.
This technology does hinder car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The key's unique blade and design is difficult to duplicate, but anyone with the appropriate tools and equipment could still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock which is more resistant to picking.
The key's design is also more durable than conventional keys. The blade is composed of hardened steel and is able to endure wear and tear for a long period before it begins to wear out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is relatively inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder makes it harder to duplicate. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you do not make the proper precautions.
Key Fobs
Even though they're convenient, key fobs can be difficult to use. They aren't always reliable and often stop functioning when you least expect them. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in an embarrassing situation, especially if you're loading your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after an exhausting day. You might need to contact a locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
Many factors influence the cost of a fob, including the type of key it is made of and the materials it is made of. Brands also play a role, as they tend to be more expensive. Some fobs are programmed by the user, while others require to be reprogrammed by a dealer.
If your key fob will not work or works infrequently, a new battery could be the answer. The coin-shaped batteries usually cost $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores, big box retailers, and online. To replace the battery, gently pull apart the two halves of the key fob, then insert the new one with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. Read Even more can do this yourself, but it's preferential to leave it to a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you can bypass this step and purchase a new one to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a new key at the exact same time.