How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key is usually made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.

Costs vary based on type. Certain kinds of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured before the '90s. These keys are simple and have a metal head that is placed in the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. They are easy to duplicate and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic key An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at the price of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control instead of having to insert the keys into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost a bit more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle to ensure that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.

If you've experienced problems when your car starts, it could be a sign of an ignition switch that is not working properly. Having this part replaced is likely to cost more than a typical key replacement but the security that comes from knowing that your car is secure makes it worth the cost.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be put in Try gently jiggling the key. This could help to release the lock wafers that might have gotten damaged over time from frequent use. This method isn't always successful and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to spend less on the replacement key if you have a traditional key. These keys have a metal shaft that's inserted in the ignition and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, your key may have a transponder chip in it to prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures that only a genuine and functioning key can be used to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which transmit an entirely different signal each time they're used so that even if someone does manage to take the key and then open your car, it won't able to start.

Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without the need to insert it into the ignition. They are more popular for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great way to secure your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

If you have keys that need replacement, be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealers charge a fee for programming the new key fob, but you can save money by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 and $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not being used. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, auto dealer, or even online, but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and transmit signals when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will detect the signal, and allow the engine start. Transponder chips are integrated into newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that do not have an integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob with a chip in could cost up to $500, based on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob with a switchblade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and the programming. If the key fob isn't damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that stop unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, ignition key Replacement cost and also makes it harder for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be used on vehicles that were built in the past 20 years. The chip in keys can help prevent theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine in the event that it matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle if you don't have the transponder key.

Be aware that a car dealer will charge you a fee when you're looking to purchase an updated transponder. This is because they're usually the only one in town who can create the type of key that your vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology stops car ignition switch replacement theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

If you have transponder keys you might notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves move tiny pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to begin. You will also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you are experiencing these problems, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology a step further. This fob, instead of using a standard key, contains an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you perform standard tasks like unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as opening the car with the press of a button. Although they are convenient they are an additional cost than transponder keys that are traditional due to their integrated technology.

To function, these smart keys have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle that activate when you turn the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once it is recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

But smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your vehicle, someone could intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by putting it in an ignition compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to reduce the risk.

The model of car you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Certain models may require the use of a keyless system integrated with the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost contact an area Pop-A-Lock branch to receive a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at a lower cost and can often provide superior ignition Key replacement cost service than the dealership.