How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys can be a major hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Based 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: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's a good chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These keys are made of metal with a head which is put into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. They are simple 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 ignition replacement cost and cost 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 placed into the ignition. They are easy 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 are equipped with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've had trouble when your car starts it might be the result of an ignition switch that is not working properly. This part will cost you more than a standard key, but it is worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.

If your mobile ignition lock repair services lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help release the lock wafers that may be a little damaged by frequent use. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes result in further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for the replacement key if your car has traditional keys. These keys feature a 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 or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to function with your car.

Transponder chips are typically found in the keys of modern automobiles to help in preventing theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures that only a valid and working key is used to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that if someone steals the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. They are more prevalent on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your vehicle from theft and provide you more convenience.

You will have to pay more when you require replacing a keyfob as it requires extra programming. Most dealers will charge an additional fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for specific sequences of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 and $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like the bladed weapon used for parking lot self-defense however it's really an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not in use. This type of key is available from a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your key and will send an alert when they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are incorporated into many modern vehicles. They transmit a unique code that only your car ignition system repair can read. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your chip and key if lost or damaged.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob that has a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob that incorporates a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, not including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. In addition certain types of keys may include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which 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 deters thieves from attempting to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be used on vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. The chip inside these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting 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 starts when the code matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle if you don't have an transponder key.

It is important to know that car ignition locked dealers will charge you a fee if you want to get a new transponder. They are usually the only ones in town that can create the specific type of key your car requires. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key at a less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s when car thieves started using a technique known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip can communicate with the car and start it. This technology can help prevent car ignition replacement near me theft because it makes hot-wiring useless.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. The grooves on the lock are able to move the pins to a position where your car can begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are experiencing these issues you should call an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. This fob, instead of using a standard key, contains an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors and activating the car with a push a button. Despite their ease of use they are more expensive than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.

To function, these smart keys have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the electronics in the interior that recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer and begins its engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far away from your car, someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by placing it in an ignition lock repair services compatible with. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to minimize this risk.

The model of vehicle you drive and the model year can also affect the cost of replacing keys. In general older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're worried about how much your replacement will cost, call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than dealerships.