Car Key Repair Cost Tips From The Most Effective In The Industry
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys
A few years ago misplacing or even losing your car keys was not an issue. You could buy an extra key at your local auto parts shop or locksmith.
As cars have adapted to adapt to technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that impact the cost of a replacement car key.
Basic Keys
When we think of our car keys, many think of a simple metal key that opens doors and starts the engine. While those are the most popular kinds of keys for cars, there are many other kinds that are more sophisticated and offer enhanced security features. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys will help people determine what to expect when replacing or repairing them.
Keys that are standard are the most basic kind of car keys. They've been in use for a long time, and remain the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase from a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied for an affordable price however they can be costly to replace when lost or damaged.
Transponder keys are a modern alternative that has been in use since 1995. They offer security and are more secure than traditional keys. These have microchips in the key handle and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace in the event of a loss or damage, however they offer greater protection against theft than standard keys.
Another alternative is the switchblade key, which folds into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They are more expensive than regular keys, but they can be more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers, as well as remote starters. They are more expensive than standard keys, and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to your local hardware store to obtain an alternative. It's a little more complicated now. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each one has its own 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 kind. These are the ones that you used to be able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have a transponder inside 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 frequently used. The key is equipped with a transponder inside the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify that the key is legitimate. The system was introduced to vehicles in 1995 and prevents them from starting when a lost or stolen key is used.
To fix this type of key, the first step is to figure out what is causing it to malfunction. Most of the time, the cause is due to either a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this the key cap and key switch must be carefully removed using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the issue. Lubricating the switch is important as it will help to remove issues such as key chatter. This is a reference to keys that register multiple inputs when pressed.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys", are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The small microchip embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits signals to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder that controls the ignition. If the car's computer does not receive the correct response from the transponder it won't start. Most cars built since 1998 have this type of chip.
Problem is, they're more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have microchips that need to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to function.
This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to the car's computer and entering a programming mode. This process is more complex than cutting a blank, because these devices aren't widely available in all locksmith shops, you may have to pay more than if were to replace the mechanical key.
Another factor is the make and model of your car. Some manufacturers have their own specialized equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which will increase your cost.
Some people prefer that an expert program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device and also the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your vehicle. Depending on the make and model you may be saving money by visiting the dealership to arrange to install your new chip.
Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser cut keys have a blade with a high degree of security. They were introduced in the 1990s, and are used to prevent vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate and come with transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted to stop the vehicle from being started if keys that are not the correct ones are used.
This technology can hinder car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, but a burglar with the appropriate tools and equipment could still make use of it to gain access into your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder lock cylinder, which is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable to traditional keys. The blade is made from hardened steel that can withstand a lot of wear and tear before fading out. If the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's relatively affordable to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.
While laser-cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're vulnerable to being lost or stolen if you don't take the proper steps to protect them.
Key Fobs
Although they're useful, key fobs can be difficult to use. They don't hold a charge forever, and they tend to shut down at the moment you least expect it. You could find yourself in an embarrassing situation if the fob fails particularly when you are taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a tiring day. It's possible to call locksmith services or a tow truck, and it could cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.
The type of key used and the materials used in the fob may influence the cost. Brands are also a factor as they can be more expensive. car key immobiliser repair can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob isn't responding or doesn't work at all, a simple battery replacement could fix the issue. These coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers, and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob and then insert the new battery with the same orientation.
If your key fob is damaged or no longer works properly, 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 accidental damage that could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing an additional key and fob if you already have one. If you've lost both keys and fob it's worth the cost to have a dealer reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.