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.

Based on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's an excellent chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured before the '90s. These simple keys come with a metal head that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't contain electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at a cost of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so, although they do cost a little more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle and ignition key replacement cost ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've had trouble with your car starting it might be the result of a faulty ignition switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than the average key replacement however the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your car is safe is worth the investment.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help release the lock wafers which may have been slightly damaged from frequent use. This method is not always successful and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for ignition key Replacement Cost a replacement key if your car has an old-fashioned key. The keys are made of metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys 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. These chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and is able to turn on your engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit an updated signal each time they are used. This ensures that even if someone is able to steal the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs work as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your car without the need to insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in vehicles made after the '90s, as they're a simple way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to provide you with additional convenience.

If you own an old key fob that requires replacement you should be prepared to spend more because they require extra programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual for specific sequences of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like the bladed weapon used to defend yourself in the parking lot, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not in use. This type of key can be bought at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer or even on the internet, but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of the key and send signals to your car when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will be able to recognize the signal, and allow the engine start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are present in many modern vehicles. They transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob that has a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features offered by.

A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, meaning that if the key itself isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. In addition, some of these types of keys can include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use when they are placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition lock repair near me cylinder to open, and it will also make it harder for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be used on vehicles that were made in the past 20 years. The chip in these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the fix ignition switch. The car's computer examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works, you won't be able to start your car.

If you're thinking of purchasing a new transponder key you should know that the car dealership will charge you a premium for the service. This is due to the fact that they're the only shop in town who can create the type of key your car needs. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and then start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective.

If you own transponder keys, you may be noticing that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear down. This is because the grooves move tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car to begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these problems you should contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. The fob instead of the standard key, has an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you 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 standard keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.

They function through the LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once it is recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

However, smart keys could also pose a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your vehicle, someone could intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by putting it in an ignition that is compatible with. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older models have lower replacement keys than modern models. Also, some models may require an entry system that's keyless and integrated with the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Contact 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 provide a replacement for less money and provide superior service than a dealership.