Find Out What Car Key Repair Cost The Celebs Are Making Use Of Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys

In the past the loss of car keys was not an issue. In fact, you could purchase a spare from an auto parts store or your local locksmith.

As cars have evolved to accommodate technological advances, replacing lost keys is more difficult and expensive. Learn more about the factors that influence the cost of replacing a car key.

Basic Keys

When people think of their car keys, they might think of a simple metal key that opens doors and start the engine. There are many more advanced kinds of keys for cars that can provide greater security. Knowing the differences between different kinds of car keys can help people know what to anticipate when replacing or repair the keys.

Keys that are standard are the simplest type of car key. They've been around for many years, and remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are keys that you can purchase at a hardware store and hook onto your keychain. Standard keys can be copied for a relatively low cost however, they can be expensive to replace when lost or damaged.

Modern alternatives include the transponder key that has been used since 1995 and is security over traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated 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 which folds up into an accessory key fob when it is not in use. They're more expensive than normal keys, but they can be more expensive if the shank of the key or the handle is damaged.

There are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers as well as remote starts. These keys are more expensive and could require locksmiths' specific tools to repair.

Mechanical Keys

In the old days when you lost a car key or it stopped working completely out of the out of the blue, all you had to do was head to your local hardware store to find an alternative. Nowadays things are a bit more complicated. There are numerous kinds of vehicles on the road and each has distinct keys. Based on the model the key is replaced, it could cost more or less than $50.

Mechanical keys are the most basic type. They're also referred to as "insert-and-turn" keys. They're the ones you used to be in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not have an electronic transponder, and are used to secure the trunk or doors but not to start the car.


The transponder key is the other type that is commonly used. It has a tiny transponder inside the key's head that transmits a coded message to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the legitimacy of the key. The system was put in vehicles from 1995 onwards. It protects the ignition from being started by an unauthorised key or lost one.

To fix this type of key the first step is to identify what is causing it to malfunction. Most of the time the reason is due to either a problem with the cap on the key or the key switch. To fix this issue, the cap or the key switch will need to be removed carefully using a tool. They will then need to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is crucial since it can remove issues such as key chatter. This is the case with keys which can register multiple inputs when they are pressed.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred as "chip keys" are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your car. The small microchip embedded in the head of the plastic key transmits signals to the antenna ring surrounding the cylinder that controls the ignition. key repairs will not start if the computer doesn't get the correct response. This type of chip is present in the majority of cars made since 1998.

Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. Apart from having an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also have a specific microchip that has to be programmed into your car's computer to work correctly.

This process is done by connecting the diagnostic tool to your car's computer and then entering the programming mode. This procedure can be more complex 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 the mechanical key.

Another factor is the make and model of your car. Some manufacturers have their own equipment that has to be used to program their vehicles, which will increase your cost.

Some people prefer that professional programming of their transponder keys. It is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to take off 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. You could save money if you go directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed.

Laser Cut Keys

Laser cut keys are a kind of car key that has high-security blade. They were first introduced in the 1990s to prevent theft of vehicles. They are harder to duplicate and come with transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition when they are inserted into it, preventing the vehicle from starting in the event that the wrong key is used.

While this technology helps deter car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them entirely. The unique blade and shape of the key are hard to duplicate, but burglars can still use it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your vehicle. This is because traditional key have a standard lock that is easy for a burglar to pick. Laser keys, however, have a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick.

The key is also more durable in comparison to conventional keys. The blade is constructed of hardened steel which can stand up to wear and tear for a long time before it becomes worn out. If the key breaks or wears out, it is fairly inexpensive to have it repaired by a locksmith.

While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts but they offer greater security. The combination of the blade design, lock cylinder and the transponder chip make them more difficult to duplicate or pick. However, they're susceptible to being stolen or lost stolen if you do not take the proper steps to protect them.

Key Fobs

Key fobs aren't always reliable even though they're convenient. They don't hold a charge for a long time, and they are likely to shut down at the moment you least expect it. You may find yourself in an embarrassing situation if your device fails in the middle of loading up your trunk with groceries or heading to work after a exhausting day. It's possible to need an emergency locksmith or tow truck, and it could cost you a considerable amount to get your vehicle back on the road.

Many factors influence the cost of a fob, including the type of key it contains and the materials it is made of. It also depends on the brand, which typically costs more. Certain fobs are programmed by the user, while others need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle by a dealer.

If your key fob does not function or functions intermittently, a replacement battery could be the answer. The coin-shaped battery are available at hardware stores, online retailers and big box retailers for less than $10. 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.

You'll need your dealer to change the program if your key fob is damaged or isn't functioning as it should. While there are ways to do this on your own, it's best to let a professional handle it to prevent 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 well worth the cost to have the dealer reprogram the key and cut a new key at the exact same at the same time.