How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured before the year 1990 there is a good possibility that you still have mechanical keys. These simple keys have a metal head that is placed in the ignition, and then turned to turn the car ignition switch repair on. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic lock An auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance with remote controls, rather than being placed into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a standard key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.

If you've experienced problems getting your car to start, it could be a sign of a faulty ignition switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement, but the assurance with knowing your vehicle is secure makes it worth the expense.

If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged due to frequent use. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to spend less on a replacement key if your car has a traditional key. These keys feature a 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 or a locksmith, and they don't require any special software to work with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are typically included in the keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. These chips work by sending an electronic signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and is able to start the engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, that send an entirely different signal each time they're used so that even if a person manages to get the key and enter your vehicle, it won't be in a position to start.

Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as as set off the alarm or open the trunk without the need 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 to provide you with additional convenience.

You will have to pay more for have to replace the keyfob since it requires extra programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob but you can save some money by following your owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded like an armed weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but this is just an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when it is not being used. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and send a signal when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with an integrated chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob equipped with an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, so when the key fob isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the blade and shank. Additionally certain types of keys come with VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorized use when they are they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the past two decades, chances are it has a transponder key. They transmit a number when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The code is verified by your car's computer, and the engine will start when the code is found to match. You won't be able to start your vehicle without an transponder key.

You should be aware that a car dealer will charge a higher price if you want to get an updated transponder. This is because they're often the only place that can produce the specific type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 1980s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip can communicate with the car and start it. This technology prevents car theft since it renders hot-wiring ineffective.

If you have a transponder key you might observe that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins within the lock into a position that allows your car to start. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing these issues it's time to contact an auto locksmith professional to replace your key.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. The key instead of being a standard key, contains a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing you to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors and starting the car with the push a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

To work, these smart keys have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you turn the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the inside electronics, which identify it as an authorized smart key. Once the smart key has been recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

But smart keys can 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 begin your car ignition barrel replacement by inserting it into an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.

The type of vehicle you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older vehicles have lower keys to replace than the latest models. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to enable features such as remote locking and Ignition Key Replacement trunk opening. Call 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 can provide a replacement at a lower cost and offer better service than a dealership.