How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a major headache. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Costs vary based on kind of key. Some types of car keys are cheaper 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's a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your car was manufactured before the '90s. These simple keys come with a metal head that is placed in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic keys An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to operate by remote controls, rather than being inserted into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than a standard key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle, ensuring that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.

If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. This part will cost you more than a standard key however, it's worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is secure.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could assist in releasing the lock wafers that may have been slightly damaged by frequent use. This method is not always successful and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with traditional keys and lock, you'll pay less for replacing it. They have a key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and turned to turn the engine. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special software to work with your car.

Transponder chips are commonly included in the keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key can be inserted to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This ensures that even if someone is able to steal the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without having to put it in the ignition. They are also more prevalent in vehicles made in the 1990s, since they're a simple way to make your car more safe from theft and give you added convenience.

You'll need to pay more if you need to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge the cost of programming the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual for Ignition Key Replacement a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded like the bladed weapon used to defend yourself in the parking lot, but this is just an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not being used. This type of key is available from an auto dealer, or even online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and transmit an alert when they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional locksmiths can modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with simple, ignition key replacement inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob with a chip in could cost up to $500, depending on features and manufacturer.

A key fob with an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, not including the price of a new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that if the key itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the shank and blade. Additionally, some of these types of keys come with a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This prevents thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on cars made in the last 20 years. The chip in keys can help prevent theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the mobile ignition lock repair services. The code is verified by your car's computer, and the engine starts if the code matches. You will not be able to start your car without the transponder key.

It is important to know that car dealers will charge you a fee if you want to get an updated transponder. They are usually the only ones in town that can create the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key for only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are a security measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology prevents car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

If you own transponder keys, you may be noticing that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are beginning to wear out. The grooves on the lock are able to move the pins to a point where your car can begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition lock repair near me. If you are having these issues, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. The key, instead of using a standard key, contains a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and doors, and opening the car with the press of a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder keys due to the technology integrated.

The smart keys function by having LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're too far away from your vehicle, someone could take the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by simply placing it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you use can also influence the cost of a replacement key. As a rule older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than those with more modern features. Additionally, certain models might require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're worried about how the replacement cost will be contact a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at less money and provide better service than a dealership.