How Much Can Car Key Repair Cost Experts Earn?
Understanding car key repair cost of Car Keys
It wasn't that long ago that losing or worse losing your car keys was not a big problem. In fact, you could buy a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.
As cars have evolved to keep up with technological advancements replacing keys lost in the car is becoming more difficult and costly. Find out more about the elements that impact the cost of a replacement car key.
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. There are a variety of more sophisticated types of car keys that can offer enhanced security. Understanding the differences between car keys will allow people understand what to expect when they need to replace or repair them.
One of the most basic kinds of car keys is a standard one, which has been around for a long time and is the most common option for newer cars. These are keys that you can purchase at an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Standard keys are relatively inexpensive to copy, but can be expensive to replace if they're lost or damaged.
Modern alternatives include the transponder keys, that has been used since 1995 and offers a more secure solution than traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key, and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost, but they offer greater protection from theft than conventional keys.
Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold into an accessory keyfob when not used. They are more expensive than normal keys to replace, but they are more expensive when the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.
There are also the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. They cost more than standard keys and could require locksmith's tools to repair.
Mechanical Keys
In the old days, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the blue, all you had to do was go to your local hardware store to obtain a replacement. Today, things are a little more complicated. There are a variety of vehicles on the road, and each one has a unique key. Depending on the type the key is replaced, it could cost more or less than $50.
Mechanical keys, also known as "insert and turn" keys are the simplest kind. These keys were the ones could be replaced at a hardware store for a few dollars. They do not contain a transponder within them and are intended for locking the door or trunk locks but not for starting the car.
The transponder keys are the other type that is commonly used. This key has a transponder in the key head that transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify that the key is in fact valid. This system was introduced in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It stops the ignition from being started by an unauthorized key or a lost one.
The first step in fixing this type of key is to determine what's causing the issue. Most of the time, the cause is due to a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To correct this the key cap and switch need to be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated in order to resolve the problem. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because this can help to eliminate issues like key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral component of the anti-theft system in your car. The microchip inside the plastic head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition piston. The car will not start if the computer can't receive the correct response. This type of chip is found in most cars manufactured from 1998 onwards.
The problem is, the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure makes them more expensive to replace. They're not only different from conventional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include microchips that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer for them to function.
This process is done by connecting an instrument for diagnostics to the car's computer and entering a programming mode. It can be more difficult 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 the basic mechanical key.
The model and make of your vehicle is an additional important factor. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which could increase the cost.
Some people prefer to have an expert do the programming of their transponder key. This is because of the complicated procedures involved, such as cutting wires to disconnect the transponder antenna, and using scanning devices and the security that comes with knowing that you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Depending on your model and make, you may be saving money by going directly to the dealer to install your new chip.
Laser Cut Keys
Laser cut keys feature a blade with a high level of security. They were introduced in the 1990s and work to combat vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting when the incorrect key is used.
This technology can deter car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key are difficult to duplicate, however thieves can still make use of it with the proper tools to gain access to your car. This is because traditional keys use a standard lock cylinder that's easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have an asymmetrical cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.
The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and can withstand wear and tear for a long time before it begins to wear out. If the key is damaged or wears out, it is fairly inexpensive to have it repaired by locksmiths.
Laser-cut keys are more expensive, however they are more secure. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you don't take the proper precautions to keep them safe.
Key Fobs
Even though they're convenient but key fobs can be tricky. They aren't always reliable and are likely to cease functioning when you least expect them. You could end up in an embarrassing situation if the fob fails in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or going to work after a tiring day. You might need to call a locksmith or a tow truck, and it may cost a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.
There are many factors that affect the price of a fob. These include the type of key it is made of and the materials it is made of. It also depends on the manufacturer, which typically costs more. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer to reprogram them to the vehicle.
If your key fob does not function or functions intermittently, a simple replacement battery could be the answer. These coin-shaped batteries typically cost $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores, big box retailers, and even online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation as the previous one.
If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function correctly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. Although you may be able to do this on your own however, it's best to let a professional handle it to prevent any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have spare keys and fob, you can 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 the cost to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the exact same at the same time.