5 Car Key Repair Cost Projects For Every Budget Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

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

As cars have adapted to keep up with technological advancements replacing keys lost in the car is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the factors that influence the total cost of car key replacement.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, many imagine a basic metal key that opens doors and then starts the engine. There are a variety of more sophisticated kinds of keys for cars that can offer enhanced security. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys can help people anticipate what to anticipate when replacing or repair the keys.

Standard keys are the most basic kind of car key. They've been in use for decades, and they remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase from an hardware store and then attach onto your keychain. Standard keys are relatively affordable to duplicate, but could be costly to replace in the event that they are lost or damaged.

More modern options include the transponder key that has been used since 1995 and offers an extra secure option than traditional keys. They are equipped with microchips inside the handle of the key and activate when they are inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if damaged or lost, but they offer better protection against theft than traditional keys.

Another alternative is the switchblade key, which folds into the form of a key fob when in use. They cost more than regular keys, but they may cost more if the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.

There are also the smart keys that have built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote start. These are more expensive than standard keys, and may require a locksmith's specific tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the past when you lost your car key or it stopped working completely out of the sudden, all you needed to do was go to the local hardware store and obtain a replacement. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are numerous kinds of cars available and each comes with an individual key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost more or less than $50.


Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. These were the keys that could be replaced at a hardware store for a few cents. They do not contain a transponder within them and are used 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 small transponder in the head of the key that sends a coded message to the ignition system of your car to verify the validity of the key. The system was introduced to cars in 1995, and can stop them from starting when a lost or stolen key is used.

The first step in fixing this type of key is to identify what is causing the malfunction. In the majority of cases it is a problem with the cap on the key or switch is the reason. To correct this problem, the cap of the key and switch need to be removed carefully using a tool and then cleaned and lubricated to resolve the issue. Lubricating the key switch is an important step because it will help in removing 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 component of the anti-theft system in your vehicle. The microchip inside the head of the key transmits a signal to the antenna ring that surrounds the cylinder of ignition. The car won't start if the computer does not get the correct response. Most cars built in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.

The issue is that the same thing that makes these types of keys more secure also makes them more expensive to replace. They're not just different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design and appearance, but they also include a microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to function.

This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to your car's computer and entering the programming mode. This process is more complex than cutting a blank, because these devices aren't readily available in all locksmith shops, you may pay more than if you were to replace the mechanical key.

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

Some prefer having a professional program their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device, as well as the peace of mind you get from knowing that a professional will be working on your car. Based on the model and make you may be able to save money by visiting the car dealership for the installation of the new chip.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a type of car key with an extremely secure blade. They came on the scene in the 1990s, and are used to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate, and they have transponder chips embedded in their heads. The chips communicate with ignitions when inserted, preventing the vehicle from starting if the wrong keys are used.

This technology helps hinder car thefts, but it's not enough to stop them completely. The unique blade shape are difficult to duplicate, but anyone with the appropriate tools and equipment could still use it to gain entry into your vehicle. This is because conventional keys come with a standard lock, which is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder lock cylinder that is more difficult to pick.

The key's design is more durable than traditional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel and is able to endure wear and tear for a long time before it becomes worn out. But, if the key wears out or is accidentally snagged in half, it's cheap to have it replaced by a professional locksmith.

While Read More At this website -cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they provide greater security. The combination of the blade, lock cylinder and the transponder make it difficult to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost if you do not take the necessary precautions.

Key Fobs

Key fobs may not be reliable, even though they are useful. They don't last forever, and they tend to cease functioning at the moment you aren't expecting it. You could find yourself in a embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions particularly when you are taking your trunk full of groceries or heading to work after a long and exhausting day. It's possible to need an emergency locksmith or tow truck and it could cost a lot of money to get your vehicle back on the road.

There are many factors that affect the price of a fob, such as the type of key it is made of and the materials it is made of. Brands also play a role as they can be more expensive. Some 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 intermittently works If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery might fix the issue. The coin-shaped batteries can be found at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. To replace the battery, gently pry the two parts of the key fob and then insert the new battery with the same orientation that the old one had.

If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function properly, you'll need to get it reprogrammed by a dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's preferential to leave it to a professional to avoid accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying an additional key and fob in the event that you already have one. If you've lost your key and fob together, it's worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a new key at the same time.