How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car key can be a major hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Depending on the type of key, costs differ based on the type of key. Certain types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob as well as transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was built before the 1990s, there is a high possibility that you still have a mechanical key. These simple keys are metal with a head that is placed in the ignition and then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with remote controls instead of being put into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this although they will cost more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've had trouble with your car starting, it could be the result of an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard one, but it is worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or unable to be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can help release the lock wafers that might be a little damaged due to frequent usage. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to pay less for the replacement key if you have traditional keys. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to begin it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special programming to work with your car.

If you're driving a more modern vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to in preventing theft. The chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a receiver inside the Ignition Key Won't Turn to ensure that only a valid key is in use and able to start your engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, that send the same signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if someone manages to steal the key and open your car, it won't able to start.

Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock, and open your car without having to put it in the ignition. These are more common for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to protect your vehicle from theft, and also give you more convenience.

You will have to pay more for need to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealerships will charge a fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in the owner's manual to a specific sequence of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key might seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds up into a fob. This kind of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or even online however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of the key and send a signal to your car when they are within range. The car's computer or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in 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 lost or damaged.

Simple, inexpensive fobs without an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob with an integrated chip can range from $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob that has a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of a new batteries and the programming. The components can usually be bought separately, so when the key fob isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys may include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This stops thieves from trying to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the past two decades, it's likely it is equipped with a transponder. The chip in these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by the computer in your car, and the engine will start when the code is found to match. If you don't have a transponder key that works, auto Locksmith ignition replacement you won't be able to start your car.

It is important to know that car dealers will charge a higher price for you to purchase an updated transponder. They are usually the only people in town who can cut the exact type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand can cut and program your new key at a only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s when car thieves started using a method known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs. These can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

If you have a transponder key, you may observe that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are starting to wear down. The grooves inside the lock move the pins to a position where your car can start. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine with just the push of a button. These keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.

They function by having they have 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 door to the interior electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. If you're too far away from your vehicle, someone could intercept the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.

The model of vehicle you drive and the model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. As a rule older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than those with more modern features. Also, some models may require keys that are integrated with the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're concerned about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide an upgrade at a lower cost and usually provide better service than the dealership.