10 Healthy Car Key Repair Cost Habits Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing or, even worse losing your car keys wasn't a big issue. In fact, you could probably find a spare at an auto parts store or your local locksmith.

As cars have adapted to adapt to technological advances, replacing lost keys is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the variables that affect the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they could think of a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. There are a myriad of more advanced types of car keys that can provide greater security. Understanding the differences between car keys will help people to 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 remain the most popular choice for cars with newer models. These are keys that you can buy at an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard can be copied at the cost of a small amount however, they can be expensive to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

Transponder keys are a new option that has been available since 1995. They are an extra-secure alternative to traditional keys. They have microchips embedded in the handle of the key and are activated when they are inserted into the ignition. They are more expensive to replace if they are damaged or lost, but provide greater security against theft than traditional keys.

Another option is the switchblade key, which folds into a key fob when not in use. They cost more than regular keys, however they are more expensive in the event that the shank of the key or the handle are damaged.

Additionally, there are the smart keys with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. They are more expensive than standard keys, and may require a locksmith's special tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys


In the past, if you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was go to the local hardware store and find a replacement. Things are a bit more complicated in the present. There are a variety of vehicles on the market and each comes with a distinct key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also known as "insert-and-turn" keys. These are the ones that you used to be able to replace at the hardware store for pocket change. They do not have an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or doors but they are not used to start the car.

The transponder key is a different type, and is the most frequently used. It has a tiny transponder inside the key's head which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. This feature was added to cars in 1995, and can stop them from being started if an unauthorized or lost key is used.

The first step to fix this kind of key is to identify the cause of the problem. Most of the time, the cause is due to an issue with the key cap or the key switch. To fix this problem, the key cap or the key switch will need to be removed with a tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch on the key is an important step because it can help eliminate issues such as key chatter, which refers to keys that register multiple inputs each press.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys (also known as "chip" keys) are an important part of your car's anti-theft system. The small microchip embedded inside the head of the car key sends the signal to the antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. If the computer of the car doesn't receive the correct response from the transponder it won't be able to start. The majority of cars manufactured in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip.

Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. They're not only different from traditional mechanical keys in terms of design however, they also have an electronic chip that must be programmed into the computer of the vehicle for them to work.

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

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

Some people prefer having a professional do the programming of their transponder key. This is due to complex procedures, such as cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna, and using a scanner device and the security you gain from knowing that a professional will be working on your vehicle. Depending on your model and make you might be able to save money by visiting the dealership to arrange to install your new chip.

how to repair car key fob cut keys are a type of car key that comes with an extremely secure blade. They were introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are more difficult to duplicate and have transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed in it, which prevents the vehicle from starting when the wrong key is used.

While this technology can stop car thieves from entering your home, it doesn't prevent them completely. The unique blade and design of the key are difficult to copy, but a burglar can still use it with the proper tools to gain access to your vehicle. This is because traditional keys use an ordinary lock cylinder that's easy to pick. However, laser keys have a sidewinder lock, which is much more difficult to pick.

The design of the key 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 wears out. If the key breaks or wears out, it's affordable to repair it by locksmiths.

While laser-cut keys are more expensive than edge-cut counterparts, they offer increased security. The combination of the blade design, the lock cylinder and the transponder chip makes them difficult to duplicate or pick. They are still susceptible to being lost or stolen if you do not take the appropriate precautions.

Key Fobs

While they're handy keys can be finicky. They don't last for long, and they're likely to shut down at the moment you aren't expecting to notice. You could end up in a embarrassing situation if your fob malfunctions, especially if you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or going to work after a tiring day. You might need to call for an locksmith or a tow truck and it can cost a lot to get your vehicle back on the road.

The type of key and the materials used in the fob may influence the cost. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Certain fobs are programmed by the user while others must be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.

If your key fob is unresponsive or is not working If your key fob is not responding or working intermittently, a simple replacement of the battery might fix the issue. These batteries are typically less than $10 and are available at hardware stores and big box retailers and even online. To replace the battery, gently pull the two parts of the key fob apart and then insert the new battery with the same orientation that the old one had.

If your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed with the help of a dealer. While you can find ways to do this yourself but it's better to have an expert handle it in order to avoid any accidental damage that could result in costly repairs in the future. You can save money by buying new keys and fobs even if you already have. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's worth the cost to get the dealer to reprogram the key and cut a brand new key at the same at the same time.