How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys 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 depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, 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 are metal with a head that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to start the vehicle. They are easy to duplicate and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic lock an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it for a cost of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popular. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the standard key.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you have difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than a typical key replacement however the security that comes from knowing that your vehicle is safe is worth the investment.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or unable to be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could aid in releasing the lock wafers that might have been slightly damaged by frequent use. It is important to remember that this method isn't always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has a traditional key and lock, you'll pay less for replacing it. They are made of metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition 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 car.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might include a transponder chip within it to help prevent theft. The chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and is able to turn on your engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if a person manages to steal the key and open your car, it won't capable of starting.

Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock and even open your car without having to insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars manufactured after the '90s, as they're a simple method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

You will have to pay more if you require replacing the keyfob since it requires extra programming. The majority of dealers will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to the exact sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob itself could cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like an armed weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not being used. This kind of key can be purchased at a locksmith, auto ignition key replacement dealer or even on the internet however the price will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the key's functions and transmit an alert to your vehicle when it is within range. 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 newer vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your key and chip if lost or damaged.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement with a chip in can cost up to $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob with a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, not including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. The components can usually be bought separately, so if the key fob itself isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys may include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use when they are they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. This prevents thieves from trying to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the past two decades, it's likely that it uses a transponder key. The chip inside these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. 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 a car dealer will charge a higher price for you to purchase a new transponder. This is because they're usually the only shop in town that can produce the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, as car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology prevents car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves in the lock move the pins to a point where your car can begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're having these issues you should contact an auto locksmith in order to replace your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Rather than using a regular key, this fob contains a computer chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to do standard tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at just the push of the button. Although they are convenient, these keys come at more expensive than transponder keys or traditional keys due to their integrated technology.

These smart keys work by using they have LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics which determine that the smart key is valid. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your car someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by inserting it into an ignition that is compatible with. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of a replacement key. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Also, ignition key Replacement some models may require an entry system that's keyless and integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're worried about how the replacement cost will be, call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement for less money and provide better service than dealerships.