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The Reason Car Key Repair Cost Is So Beneficial When COVID-19 Is In Session
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

A few years ago the loss of car keys weren't a big deal. In fact, you could find a spare at an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.

However, as automobiles have evolved to accommodate technological advances and technology, replacing keys that have been lost has become more difficult and costly. Find out more about the factors that affect the total cost of car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they usually imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. There are many more advanced types of car keys that can provide greater security. Knowing the distinctions between car keys will allow people know what to expect when they have to replace or repair them.

Standard keys are the most basic kind of car keys. They've been in use for a long time, and are still the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are keys that you can purchase at the hardware store and attach to your keychain. Standard keys can be copied for the cost of a small amount however they can be costly to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

The most modern alternatives include the transponder keys, which has been used since 1995 and provides security over traditional keys. Microchips are embedded in the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They are more costly to replace in the event of a loss or damage, but they are more secure against theft than conventional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade key which folds up into the form of a key fob when in use. They are a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, but can be more costly when the handle or shank of the key is damaged.

Additionally, there are the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost a 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. Today, things are a little more complicated. There are a variety of cars in circulation and each has a different key. Depending on the type, replacing it may cost more or less than $50.

remote key repairs are the most basic type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. These keys were the ones could be replaced at a hardware shop for a few dollars. They do not come with a transponder and are used to lock the trunk or doors, but not to start the car.

The transponder key is a different type that is commonly used. This key has a transponder inside the key head that sends a coded signal to the ignition system in your car to confirm that the key is legitimate. This feature was added to automobiles in 1995, and can stop them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.

The first step to fix this kind of key is to pinpoint what is causing the malfunction. In the majority of cases it is due to either an issue with the key cap or the key switch. To fix this issue, the cap or switch must be removed with an instrument. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the key switch is essential as this can help to eliminate issues such as key chatter that refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also known as "chip keys", are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your vehicle. The microchip inside the plastic head of the key transmits signals to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The car won't start if the computer can't get the correct response. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.

The problem 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 needs to be programmed into your car's computer to function effectively.

This is accomplished by connecting a diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering a programming mode. It's more complicated than simply cutting a brand new blank, and because these tools aren't readily available in every locksmith shop, you'll spend more than with the replacement of a standard mechanical key.


The make and model of your vehicle is a different factor. Certain manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles and increase the cost.

Some people prefer having professionals handle the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures involved, which include cutting wires to remove the transponder antenna and utilizing scanning devices as well as the security that comes with knowing you are working with a professional who is experienced on your vehicle. Based on the model and make, you may be in a position to save money by bringing your car directly to the car dealership for the installation of the new chip.

Keys Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a kind of car key with a high-security blade. They were introduced in the 1990s and help to prevent vehicle theft. They are harder to duplicate and come with transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when inserted into it, which stops the vehicle from starting when the incorrect key is used.

This technology can hinder car thefts, but it doesn't stop them completely. The unique blade and design of the key are hard to duplicate, however thieves can still make use of it with the right tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys have the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, which can endure wear and tear for a long period before it wears out. If the key is damaged 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 design, the lock cylinder and transponder chip makes them more difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still at risk of being lost or stolen if you do not take the necessary precautions.

Key Fobs

While they're handy but key fobs can be difficult to use. They don't hold a charge for long, and they're likely to stop functioning when you aren't expecting to notice. A malfunctioning device can put you in a difficult situation, especially if you're packing your trunk with food items or heading off to work after an extended day. You might need to contact locksmith services or a tow truck, and it can cost a lot to get your car back on the road.

Many factors influence the cost of a fob, such as the type of key it contains and the materials it is made of. It also depends on the brand, 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 doesn't respond or intermittently works A simple battery replacement might fix the issue. These coin-shaped battery can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pull off the two halves of the key fob and insert the new one in the same orientation.

If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll have to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to leave it to a professional to avoid accidental damage which could lead to costly repairs in the future. You can save money by purchasing new keys and fobs even if you already have. If you've lost both keys and fob it's worth the cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key at the same time.

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