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Car Key Repair Cost Tips From The Top In The Business
Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't too long ago that losing or worse losing keys to your car was not a big issue. In fact, you could probably purchase a spare from an auto parts store or at your local locksmith.

However, as cars have adapted to technological advancement, replacing lost keys has become more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the factors that affect the total cost of a car key replacement.

Basic Keys

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

Standard keys are the most basic type of car keys. They've been around for decades, and they remain the most popular option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase at the hardware store and attach onto your keychain. Standard keys are relatively inexpensive to copy, but could cost a lot to replace if they're lost or damaged.

More modern options include the transponder key, which has been in use since 1995 and provides an extra secure option than traditional keys. Microchips are embedded into the handle of the key and activated when the key is put into the ignition. They can be more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but they offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade key which folds up into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They're more expensive than normal keys, but they may cost more when the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

There are also smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers, and remote starters. They cost more than standard keys and may require locksmith's tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past, if your car key broke or stopped working, you had to visit the local hardware store to get a new one. Things are a bit more complicated now. There are numerous kinds of cars on the road and each has an individual key. Based on the model that you are replacing, it could cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also called "insert-and-turn" keys. They are the keys that you were capable of replacing at the hardware store for pocket change. They don't have transponders and are used to lock the trunk or the doors, but they are not used to start the car.

The transponder key is a different type, and is the most commonly used. This key has an internal transponder within the head that transmits a coded signal the ignition system in your car to verify that the key is valid. The system was introduced to vehicles in 1995 and can prevent them from being started when a lost or stolen key is used.

The first step to fix this kind of key is to pinpoint the cause of the problem. In most cases, a problem with either the cap on the key or switch is the cause. To correct this problem, the cap of the key and key switch must be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to fix the problem. Lubricating the switch on the key is essential as it will help in removing issues like key chatter which refers to keys that register multiple inputs with each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are a vital component of your car's anti-theft system. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition key cylinder. The car will not start if the computer does not get the correct response. Most cars produced from 1998 include this type of chip.

The problem is that they're more expensive to replace. In addition to having a different design than traditional mechanical keys, they contain a special microchip that must be programmed into your vehicle's computer to work correctly.

Connecting remote car key repair to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode is the way to do this. This process is more complicated than simply cutting a blank and since these tools aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you might be charged more than if you were to replace a mechanical key.

Another aspect is the make and model of your vehicle. Some manufacturers require specialized equipment to program their vehicles, which increases your cost.

Some prefer to have a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complex procedures, such as cutting wires to take off the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device as well as the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. It is possible to save money by going directly to the dealer to have your new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys Keys


Laser cut keys are a type of car key that comes with high-security blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to stop vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional keys and feature transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions once they are inserted and prevent the vehicle from starting if the wrong keys are used.

This technology can hinder car thefts, but it's not able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and design of the key is difficult to duplicate, however burglars can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your car. This is because conventional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for burglars to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock that is more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable in comparison to traditional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel, and is able to endure wear and tear for a long time before it wears out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's relatively cheap to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith.

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. 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 don't last forever and tend to stop working at the moment you least expect them. A malfunctioning fob can leave you in a difficult situation, particularly if you're loading your car with food items or heading off to work after a long day. It's possible to call for a locksmith or a tow truck, and it can cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.

There are many factors that affect the price of a fob. These include the kind of key it comes with and the materials it is made of. It is also dependent on the brand which is usually more expensive. Certain fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle.

If your key fob doesn't respond or doesn't work at all, a simple battery replacement may be the solution. These batteries are typically $10 or less and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently pry the two halves of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery in the same way as the old one.

If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning properly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do this yourself, but it's better to let it be done by a professional to avoid any accidental damage that could lead to expensive repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could bypass this step and purchase a new one to save money. However, if you've lost both your fob and keys, it's worth the extra cost to have a dealership reprogram the new key and cut the new key simultaneously.

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