How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Costs vary based on kind of key. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the year 1990 there is a good likelihood that you have an electronic key. These keys come with a metal head that is inserted in the ignition, then turned to turn the car ignition locked on. They are easy to copy and do not have any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the '90s and are designed to be operated from a distance with an electronic remote instead of being put into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools for doing so however they 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 of the vehicle to ensure that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you are having difficulties starting your car it could be due to a defective switch. This component will cost more than a standard one, but it is worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or isn't able to be placed in by gently turning the key. This could aid in releasing the lock wafers that might have been damaged by frequent use. It is important to remember that this approach isn't always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for an alternative key if you have an old-fashioned key. These keys feature a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition and key replacement of the vehicle and then turned to turn it on to start it. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to function with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are commonly found in the keys of modern vehicles to help prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a genuine and functioning key is used to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send a new signal each time they are used. This means that even if someone is able to steal the key, your car won't start.

Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock, and open your car without having to insert them into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in vehicles made after the '90s, as they're an easy way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and give you added convenience.

If you have a key fob that needs replacement be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual that describe the exact sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like an armed weapon with blades for parking lot self-defense however it's really an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not being used. This type of key can be purchased from a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet, but the cost will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of keys and send an alert to your vehicle when it is within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will recognize the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips are integrated into newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read-code. Professional car locksmiths are able to change the chip and key when they become damaged or lost.

Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, so if the key itself isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys may include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and also makes it harder for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be used on cars manufactured within the last 20 years. The chip inside keys can help prevent theft by sending a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine is started when the code matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works you won't be able to start your car.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key you need to know that the dealership for ignition key replacement your car will charge you a premium for the service. They are usually the only one that can create the specific type of key your car requires. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to start it. This technology prevents car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may notice that the grooves of your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. The grooves in the lock move the pins into a position that allows your car can begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing any of these issues you should contact an auto locksmith professional to change your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. Rather than using a regular key, this type of key has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and door and starting the engine with the click of one button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are more expensive than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.

To function the smart keys, they are equipped with the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the inside electronics, which identify it as an authorized smart key. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys could present a risk to safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far away from your car, someone could be able to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by putting it into a compatible ignition. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce this risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you use can also influence the cost of replacing a key. In general older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Some models also require keys that are connected to the fob in order to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at a lower cost and often offer superior service than the dealership.