How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Costs vary based on kind of key. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob as well as transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s there is a good likelihood that you have mechanical keys. These simple keys are metal with a head that is placed in the ignition, then turned to start the car. These are easy 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 will cost less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of having to insert the keys into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so although they will cost a little more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle, ensuring that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've experienced problems with your car starting it may be the result of an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard one, however, it's worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which could have been damaged over time due to frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car ignition switch repair has a traditional key that is a traditional key, you will pay less for replacing it. They are made of metal shaft that is put into the ignition 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 programming to function with your car.

If you're driving a brand newer car, your key could include a transponder chip within it to in preventing 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 most advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, that send a different signal every time they're used. This ensures that even if someone does manage to take the key and then open your car, it won't be in a position to start.

Key fobs are essentially an electronic remote control that lets you to unlock or lock your car, as well being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars built after the 90s, as they're a convenient method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to give you added convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacement you should be prepared to spend more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealers charge a fee for programming the new key fob, but you can save money by following your owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded 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 it is not in use. This type of key can be bought from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online but the cost 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 they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are present in many modern vehicles. They transmit an unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional car locksmiths are able to change the chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that have no integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob that has a built-in chip can be as high as $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 parts can typically be purchased separately, meaning that if the key fob itself isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This prevents thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the last two decades, it's likely that it uses a transponder key. They transmit a number when they are inserted into the ignition. This can help prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine if it matches. Without a functioning transponder key, you won't be able to start your car.

Be aware that car dealers will charge you a fee if you want to get a new transponder. This is because they're often the only place who can create the type of key that your car needs. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car to start it. This technology stops car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to begin. You will also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're experiencing any of these issues you should contact an expert auto locksmith to change your key.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology a step further. Rather than using a regular key, this fob contains an electronic chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at just the push of a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

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

Smart keys can present a risk to safety. If you're too far away from your car it is possible for someone to take the low-frequency signal and begin your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition cylinder lock repair slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The kind of car you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. As a rule older models are more likely to have more expensive replacement keys than those with more modern features. Certain models may require a keyless system that is connected to the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost, call an area Pop-A-Lock branch to get a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement for a lower cost and offer superior service than a dealership.