9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an ignition key replacement cost (Read Even more)?

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

Based on the kind of key, prices differ based on the type of key. Certain kinds of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the four types of fix ignition switch keys that are available that include mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, 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 keys are simple and come with a metal head that is placed in the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic key, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at a cost of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control rather than needing to insert the key into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a standard key.

Transponder keys, first 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 they cost more to cut and program.

If you're having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. Replacing this component will probably cost more than the average key replacement but the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the cost.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could assist in releasing the lock wafers which may have been damaged by frequent use. However, it's important to remember that this method isn't always successful and may cause more damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to spend less on a replacement key if your car has an old-fashioned key. They have a shaft that's inserted in 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 to work with your car.

Transponder chips are typically found in the keys of modern vehicles to help prevent theft. The chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is used and is able to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This ensures that if someone takes the key away and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are essentially remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your car, as well being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in vehicles made in the 1990s, since they're an easy method to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you additional convenience.

You'll need to pay more if you have to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob, but you can save some cash by following the owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself could cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded like the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots however it's really an innovative car ignition key replacement key that folds into the fob when it is not in use. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, an auto ignition key replacement dealer, or on the internet however it will cost more than traditional keys.

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

Traditional keys can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in could cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob with a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, including the cost of a new battery and programming. If the key fob is not damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Certain keys might also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This stops thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the last two decades, it's likely it has a transponder key. The chip in these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by your car's computer and the engine will start when the code is found to match. Without a working transponder key you won't be able to start your car.

It is important to know that a car dealer will charge you a fee when you're looking to purchase an updated transponder. They are usually the only people in town who can make the specific type of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technique called hot-wiring to steal 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 start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective.

If you own transponder keys, you may observe that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are beginning to wear down. The grooves in the lock allow the pins to move to a position where your car is able to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues you should contact an expert auto locksmith to change your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. This fob instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors, and opening the car with the push a button. Although they are convenient however, these keys are more expensive than traditional or transponder keys due to their integrated technology.

To work the smart keys, they are equipped with to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the inside electronics that recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your car someone could be able to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by putting it into an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to minimize the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of a replacement key. As a rule older models are more likely to have more expensive replacement keys than newer ones. Also, some models may require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at a lower cost and usually provide superior service than the dealership.