5 Car Key Repair Cost Lessons Learned From Professionals
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or worse losing keys to your car was not an problem. In fact, you could probably buy a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.
As cars have adapted to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is becoming more difficult and costly. Learn more about the factors that influence the overall cost of a car key replacement.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they might think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While these are the most common kinds of keys for cars however, there are other types that are more advanced and can provide enhanced security features. Knowing the distinctions between different types of keys for cars will help people determine what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing them.
Keys that are standard are the most basic type of car key. They've been in use for many years, and remain the most popular option for vehicles with newer technology. These are the keys you can buy at the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.
The most modern alternatives include the transponder key, which has been used since 1995 and is a more secure solution than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but offer better protection against theft than conventional keys.
auto key repair near me is the switchblade key, which folds into the form of a key fob when in use. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but could be more expensive if the shank or handle of the key is damaged.
There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past, if your car key broke or stopped working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to get a new one. Today, things are a little more complicated. There are a variety of cars available and each comes with distinct keys. Based on the type of car it may cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also referred to as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. These were the keys that you could buy from the hardware store for a few cents. They do not have an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or doors but they are not used to start the car.
The other kind of key, which is the most popular in use, is the transponder key. This key has a transponder inside the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify that the key is in fact valid. This system was installed in cars starting in 1995. It prevents them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.
The first step in fixing this kind of key is to pinpoint the cause of the problem. In most cases, the cause is due to either an issue with the cap of the key or the key switch. To fix this issue, the key cap and key switch must be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the issue. Lubricating the switch on the key is a crucial step as this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the key transmits a signal to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder that controls the ignition. If the car's computer isn't receiving the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. Most cars produced in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.
The issue is that they are more expensive to replace. Apart from having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that has to be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work correctly.
This is accomplished by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to your car's computer and then entering a programming mode. This process can be more complicated than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't available in all locksmith shops, you could be charged more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
Another aspect is the model and make of the car you are driving. Certain manufacturers require special equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.
Some people prefer to have an expert do the programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, as well as the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. Based on the make and model, you may be able to save money by visiting the dealer for the installation of the new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys are a form of car key that has a high-security blade. They were first 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 ignitions when they are inserted, preventing the vehicle from starting if keys that are not the correct ones are used.
While this technology helps stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them completely. The unique blade shape is difficult to duplicate, however a burglar with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to get into your car. This is because traditional keys have the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable compared to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key breaks or wears out, it is fairly inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive however, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, the lock cylinder and the transponder make it difficult to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you do not take the appropriate precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs may not be reliable even though they're practical. They don't hold a charge for long, and they're likely to shut down at the moment you least expect it. A malfunctioning keypad can put you in an embarrassing situation, especially when you're packing your trunk with food items or heading off to work after an exhausting day. It's possible to contact a locksmith or a tow truck, and it could cost you a lot of money to get your car back on the road.
There are many factors that affect the price of a fob, including the type of key it contains and its materials. Brands are also a factor, as they tend to be more expensive. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob will not work or is working intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost less than $10 and are available at hardware stores or big box retailers and on the internet. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob and insert the new battery in the same way that the old one had.
If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning correctly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's preferential to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you could 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 have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a new key at the same time.