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 an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Depending on the type of key, prices differ based on the type of key. Some car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys available: mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's a good chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These simple keys come with a metal head that is placed in the ignition, and then turned to turn the car on. These are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic keys, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for a cost of 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. They are simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures 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 have trouble starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than the average key replacement however the security that comes with knowing your vehicle is secure makes it worth the expense.

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

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with a traditional key, you can expect to pay less for replacing it. They are made of metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to begin it. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are commonly found in keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is in use and is able to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send a new signal each time they are used. This means that even if someone takes the key away the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your car, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the fix ignition switch. These are more common on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your vehicle from theft and provide you more convenience.

You will have to pay more if you need to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. Most dealers will charge an additional fee to program the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to specific sequences of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The car key with a switchblade may appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually an innovative key that folds into the fob. This kind of key can be purchased from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online, but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your keys and will send an alert when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer within the car will recognize the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are embedded in many modern vehicles. They transmit an unique code that only your car can read. Professional car locksmiths are able to reprogram your chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

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

A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, not including the cost of a new battery and programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some of these keys may also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition lock repair near me cylinder. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it difficult 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 inside keys can help prevent theft by transmitting the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine if it matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle if you don't have the transponder key.

You should be aware that a car dealership will charge a higher price when you're looking to purchase an updated transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only one in town who can create the type of key that your car needs. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at less than the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. 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 even start it. This technology stops car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may be noticing that the grooves on your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves move tiny pins inside the lock to a position 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 cylinder lock repair. If you are experiencing these problems, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology a step further. This fob, instead of using the standard key, has a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing it to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as opening the car with the press of a button. Despite their convenience, these keys come at more expensive than traditional or transponder keys because of the integrated technology.

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

Smart keys can pose a safety risk. If you're far from your car it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition lock repair services slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce this risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive also influence the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule older cars tend to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Some models may also require an electronic keypad that's connected to the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can offer an upgrade at a lower price and can often provide better service than the dealership.