How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car key could be a major headache. 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 car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys: mechanical remote keyfob, remote, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured before the year 1990, there is a high likelihood that you have an electronic key. These keys are made of metal with a head which is put into the ignition and turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic lock An auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for the price of less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the early 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with remote controls instead of being put into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools for doing so, although they do cost a little more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the right key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.

If you've experienced problems when your car ignition locked starts, it could be due to an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard key, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your car is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or can't be put in by gently turning the key. This can assist in releasing the lock wafers that may have been damaged by frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may result in further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key and lock, you'll pay less to replace it. The keys are made of metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and then turned to start your vehicle. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might include a transponder chip within it to help in preventing theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a valid and working key can be used to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used, so that even if someone manages to take the key and then open your car ignition switch replacement, it won't capable of starting.

Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without the need to insert them into the ignition. They are more prevalent on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your vehicle from theft and provide you more convenience.

You'll need to pay more when you have to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob, however, you can save money by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The car key with a switchblade may seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a unique key that folds down into the fob. This type of key can be purchased from a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet however the price will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the key's functions and transmit a signal to your car when it is within range. 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 present in the majority of modern vehicles and transmit an unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your key and chip if damaged or lost.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. These are usually available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost 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, depending on the manufacturer and features offered by.

A key fob that incorporates an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, not including the price of a new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, so if the key fob itself isn't harmed you can just replace the shank and blade. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which make it impossible for unauthorized use to be inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the vehicle. This stops thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the past two decades, it's likely it has a transponder key. The keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The code is checked by the computer in your car, and the engine starts when the code matches. You won't be allowed to start your car without the transponder key.

You should be aware that a car dealership will charge a premium if you want to get an updated transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only shop in town that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car to start it. This technology stops car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You might notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves in the lock are able to move the pins to a point where your car can start. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're experiencing any of these issues you should contact an auto locksmith professional to repair your key.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. Instead of using a standard key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to do standard tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine with just the push of a button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are more expensive than transponder keys or traditional keys due to their integrated technology.

To function the smart keys work, they have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

Smart keys could be a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far from your vehicle, someone could intercept the low-frequency signal and Ignition Key replacement Cost start your car by inserting it in an ignition that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule older cars tend to have cheaper key replacements than those with more modern features. Some models might also require a keyless system that is integrated with the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about much your replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at a lower cost and often offer superior service than the dealership.