How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a major headache. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith ignition replacement cost.

Based on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available that include mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was built prior to the 1990s, there is a high chance that you still have an electronic key. These basic keys are made of steel with a head that is placed in the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith ignition replacement cost and cost well under $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of having to insert the key into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you have difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This part will cost you more than a standard key but it is worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be put in Try gently jiggling the key. This will aid in releasing the lock wafers that may be a little damaged from frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to spend less on the 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 begin it. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require any special software to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, your key may contain a transponder chip inside it to in preventing theft. These chips work by sending a signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and is able to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit every time they are used. This means that even if someone steals the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are basically a remote control that allows you to lock or unlock your car, as well being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk without having to insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured in the 1990s, since they're an easy method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

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

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not in use. This kind of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or on the internet but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your key and transmit an alert 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, which have been in use since 1995, are incorporated into most modern vehicles and transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key when they become damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob that has a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features offered by.

A key fob with an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, so if the key fob itself isn't harmed you can just replace the shank and blade. Additionally, some of these types of keys may include a VATS 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 immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder to open, and also makes it difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the last two decades, it's likely that it uses a transponder key. These keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This can help prevent theft of your vehicle. The code is checked by your car's computer and the engine will start when the code is found to match. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle without a transponder key.

It is important to know that a car dealer will charge you a fee when you're looking to purchase an updated transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only shop in town who can create the kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 1980s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology helps prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring useless.

If you own transponder keys you may observe that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car to begin. You will also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does a new ignition switch require a new key not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're experiencing these problems, it is time to contact an auto ignition key replacement locksmith in order to replace your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. The fob instead of being a standard key, contains an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to do basic tasks like locking the doors and trunk, as well as opening the car with the pressing of a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due to the integrated technology.

To work, these smart keys have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics which identify the smart key as valid. When the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far from your car someone could intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by inserting it in an ignition compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're anxious about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide an alternative at a lower cost and can often provide better service than the dealership.