How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a huge hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Based on the type of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys available: mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's an excellent chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured before the '90s. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic key an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it for less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance using remote controls instead of being put into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the normal key.

Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.

If you've been experiencing trouble getting your car to start it might be a sign of a faulty ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard key, however, it's worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.

If your repair ignition lock cylinder lock cylinder is stuck or can't be placed in Try gently jiggling the key. This can assist in releasing the lock wafers which may have been damaged from frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to pay less for the replacement key if you have traditional keys. These keys feature a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to start it. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't require special programming to work with your car.

Transponder chips are often included in the keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is used and able to start your engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they're used, so that even if a person manages to take the key and then open your car, it won't capable of starting.

Key fobs are essentially an electronic remote control that lets you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to 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 give you additional convenience.

You'll need to pay more if you need to replace a keyfob because it requires extra programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee to program the new key fob, but you can save some cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself could cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a novel key that folds into a fob. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or on the internet but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your key and ignition Key replacement transmit an alert when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer within the car will be able to recognize the signal and Ignition key replacement permit the engine start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. A key fob replacement that has a chip built in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob that incorporates the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, including the price of a new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be bought separately, so if the key fob itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the shank and blade. Some of these keys may include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will prevent thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and also makes it harder for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the last two decades, it's likely that it has a transponder key. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This can help prevent the theft of your vehicle. The car's computer is able to check the code and start the engine in the event that it matches. Without a working transponder key, you won't be able to start your car.

If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key you need to know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a fee for the service. They are often the only one that can create the specific type of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. 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 helps prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring ineffective.

If you have a transponder key you might notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear out. The grooves inside the lock allow the pins to move into a position that allows your car can begin. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing issues like this, it's time to call an expert auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. Instead of a traditional key, this one has a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at just the push of a button. These keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.

To function, these smart keys have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle that activate when you turn the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once the car ignition switch is identified, it stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

Smart keys could present a risk to safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far from your car an individual could pick up the low frequency signal and start your car by putting it into a compatible ignition. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce this risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of a replacement key. In general, older vehicles have lower keys to replace than the latest models. Some models may also require a keyless system that is integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're concerned about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than dealerships.