How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Depending on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain car keys are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys available including mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured before the 1990s, there is a high likelihood that you have an electronic key. These simple keys are metal with a head that is put into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and cost you less than $50.

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

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.

If you are having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This part will cost you more than a standard key, but it is worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be put in, try gently jiggling the key. This could assist in releasing the lock wafers that may be a little damaged by frequent use. This method is not always successful and may result in further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to spend less on the replacement key if your car has traditional keys. The keys are made of metal key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the 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.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might have a transponder chip in it to help prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key is used to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used, so that even if someone does manage to steal the key and open your vehicle, it won't be in a position to start.

Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock, and open your car without the need to put it in the ignition. They are more prevalent on cars built after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to protect your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

You'll need to pay more for have to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealerships will charge a fee to program a new one, but 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 can 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 actually an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not being used. This type of key can be available from an auto dealer, or online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your key and will send signals 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, which have been in use since 1995, are incorporated into the majority of modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob that has a built-in chip can range from $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys can include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that stop unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizers 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 copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be found on vehicles built in the last 20 years. The chip inside these keys prevents vehicle theft by sending an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by your car's computer, and the engine is started when the code is found to match. You won't be able to start your vehicle if you don't have the transponder key.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key you need to know that the dealership for your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're usually the only one in town that can make the type of key that your car needs. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are a security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and then start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective.

You might observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is due to the grooves moving little pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition cylinder lock repair. If you're experiencing these problems, it is time to call an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform basic tasks such as opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine at just the push of one button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are an additional cost than traditional or transponder keys because of the integrated technology.

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

But smart keys can also be a safety risk. If you're far from your car it is possible for someone to intercept the low-frequency signal and begin your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than newer ones. Also, some models may require a keyless entry system that's connected to the fob in order to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at a lower cost and offer superior service than a dealership.