A Guide To Car Key Repair Cost In 2024
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or, even worse losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could buy an extra key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
As cars have evolved to adapt to technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the variables that influence the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When people think of their car keys, they often imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. While those are the most commonly used kinds of keys for cars, there are many other kinds that are more sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people 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 one, which has been around for decades and remains the most commonly used option for newer cars. These are keys that you can purchase at an establishment that sells hardware and connect to your keychain. Keys of the standard type are affordable to duplicate, but could be costly to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are an innovative option that has been available since 1995. They offer a more secure alternative to traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key, and are activated when inserted into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, however they provide greater protection against theft than traditional keys.
Switchblade keys are a different option. They fold into an accessory keyfob when not used. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly if the shank or handle of the key is damaged.
Additionally, there are the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the past when you lost a car key or it stopped working out of the blue, all you had to do was visit your local hardware store and get an alternative. The process is a bit more complicated in the present. There are a variety of cars on the road and each comes with an individual key. Depending on the model it can cost more or less than 50 dollars.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the most basic type. They were the keys you could replace at the hardware store for a few dollars. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used to lock the door locks or trunk locks, but not for starting the car.
The transponder key is a different type that is commonly used. The key is equipped with a tiny transponder inside the key's head that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the authenticity of the key. The system was put in vehicles as early as 1995. It stops them from being started with an unauthorized key or a lost one.
To fix this kind of key, the first step is to figure out the reason for its malfunction. In the majority of cases the reason is due to an issue with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this issue, the cap or switch must be removed carefully using a tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is essential because it can help remove issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys that allow multiple inputs to be detected when they are they are pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip keys" are an integral part of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the plastic head of the key transmits a signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the cylinder of ignition. If the car's computer doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder, it won't begin to turn on. This kind of chip can be present in the majority of cars made since 1998.
Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. They also have an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a unique microchip that needs to be programmed into your car's computer to function properly.
This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to the car's computer and entering the programming mode. This process is more complex than simply cutting a blank and because these tools aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you could pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is a different factor. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.
Some prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is because of the complex procedures involved, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and utilizing a scanning device and the assurance that comes from knowing you have an experienced professional working on your vehicle. You may be able save money if you go directly to the dealership to get your new chip installed.
Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys come with a blade with a high level of security. They first came to the market in the 1990s, and are used to combat vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting if keys that aren't the right ones are used.
While this technology helps deter car thieves but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, however anyone with the proper tools and equipment can still use it to gain entry into your car. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that's easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, come with an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
car key repair cost is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before eventually wearing out. If the key does wear out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's relatively inexpensive to replace it by a seasoned locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer greater security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder make it difficult to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost if you don't take the necessary precautions.
Key Fobs
Key fobs are not always reliable even though they're useful. They can't keep a charge for long, and they're likely to stop functioning when you aren't expecting it. You may find yourself in an embarrassing situation if the fob fails in the middle of carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a exhausting day. You might need to call for an locksmith or a tow truck, and it may cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob may affect the price. It also depends on the manufacturer, 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 isn't responding or intermittently works A simple battery replacement may be the solution. The coin-shaped batteries are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for $10 or less. To replace the battery, gently break apart the two halves of your key fob and insert the new one with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. Although you may be able to do this yourself however, it's best to have professionals handle the task to prevent any accidental damage that could cause costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing an additional key and fob in the event that you already have one. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the same time.