How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys is a huge hassle. A replacement key can usually be made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.

Depending on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Some car keys are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There is the possibility that you have a classic mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These simple keys are metal with a head which is placed in the ignition and then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, 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 a remote controller, rather than being put into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with a microchip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you're having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. This part will cost more than a standard key, but it is worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If the cylinder of your ignition key replacement lock is stuck or can't be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This will help release the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged over time due to frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has a traditional key, you can expect to pay less to replace it. They have a key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and turned to turn the engine. 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 typically found in the keys of modern automobiles to help in preventing theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and is able to turn on your engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit every time they are used. This ensures that if someone takes the key away the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs work as a remote control, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without having to put it in the ignition. They are more prevalent for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great method to secure your car from theft, and give you more convenience.

If you own keys that need replacing you should be prepared to spend more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealers will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for a specific sequence of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The car key with a switchblade may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a unique key that folds up into a fob. This kind of key is available at a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet but the cost will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of keys and send signals to your car ignition locked when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into newer vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is lost or damaged.

Traditional keys can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that do not have an integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob with a switchblade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and the programming. If the key fob isn't damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This deters thieves from attempting to force your ignition cylinder replacement near me cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be found on vehicles built in the past 20 years. The chip on these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by your car's computer and the engine is started when the code matches. Without a functioning transponder key, you won't be able to start your vehicle.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key, you should know that the dealership for your car will charge you a fee for the service. This is because they're usually the only one in town who can create the type of key that your car needs. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are a security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip can communicate with the car and start it. This technology helps prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring useless.

If you own transponder keys you may notice that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are beginning to wear down. This is because the grooves move little pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are having these issues, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key

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

The smart keys function by having the LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the interior electronics, which identify it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and starts its engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're too far away from your car there's a chance that someone can intercept the low-frequency signal and begin your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive also influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older vehicles have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Some models might also require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob in order to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about how the replacement cost will be, call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able to offer a replacement at less money and provide better service than dealerships.