How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Costs vary based on type. Certain types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys that are available including mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the year 1990, there is a high chance that you still have an electronic key. These simple keys are metal with a head which is put into the ignition, then turned to start the vehicle. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic key, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at the price of less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate 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, although they do cost a little more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.

If you've been experiencing trouble when your car starts, it could be due to an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard key however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your car is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or can't be put in Try gently jiggling the key. This can help free the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged over time from frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to spend less on a replacement key if you have an old-fashioned key. They are made of metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a more modern car, your key could include a transponder chip within it to in preventing theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a valid and working key can be inserted to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send every time they are used. This means that even if someone takes the key away the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars built after the '90s, as they're a simple way to make your vehicle more safe from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

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

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a novel key that folds up into the fob. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or on the internet however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of the key and send an alert to your vehicle when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer within the car will be able to recognize the signal and permit the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are present in the majority of modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs with no integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that has a chip built into it can cost as high as $500, depending on features and manufacturer.

A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob is not damaged you can replace the blade or shank. In addition, some of these types of keys can include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder to open, and will make it harder for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on cars made in the past 20 years. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This can help prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine in the event that it matches. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle if you don't have the transponder key.

You should be aware that car dealers will charge a higher price for you to purchase a new transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only shop in town that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology can help prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring useless.

You might observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves in the lock allow the pins to move into a position that allows your car can start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition cylinder lock repair. If you're experiencing these issues you should contact a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. The key, instead of using an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, Ignition Key Replacement Cost allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the pressing of a button. These keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

To function the smart keys, they are equipped with the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. They activate when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the car is identified, it stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

Smart keys could present a risk to safety. If you're far from your car, someone could detect 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 10cm to reduce the risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you drive also influence the cost of replacing a key. As a rule, older models tend to have more expensive replacement keys than newer ones. Additionally, certain models might require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob in order to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at cheaper and provide superior service than a dealership.