9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

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The loss of your car keys could be a major headache. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Based on the type of key, prices vary. Certain kinds of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys including mechanical remote keyfob, remote, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the 1990s there is a good likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These simple keys are metal with a head which is put into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control rather than having to insert the keys into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so however they cost more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.

If you are having difficulties starting your car it could be due to a defective switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a standard key replacement however the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the expense.

If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help release the lock wafers which may be a little damaged by frequent use. This method is not always successful and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has traditional keys, you can expect to pay less to replace it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to turn it on to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't need any special programming to function with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are commonly included in the keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key is used to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they're used, so that even if a person manages to steal the key and open your car, it won't capable of starting.

Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without the need to insert it into the ignition. They are more popular on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to protect your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

You will have to pay more for need to replace a keyfob as it requires additional programming. Most dealers will charge an additional fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe a specific sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's the bladed weapon used for parking lot self-defense, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not in use. This type of key can be bought at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer or even on the internet but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the key's functions and transmit signals to your car when it is within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will detect the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are embedded in the majority of modern vehicles and transmit an unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional car locksmiths are able to modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for 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, based on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob is not damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys come with VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorized use when they are placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and it will also make it difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were built in the past 20 years. These keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine when it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works it will be impossible to start your vehicle.

Be aware that a car dealership will charge a premium if you want to get an updated transponder. They are often the only people in town who can cut the exact type of key your car requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a security measure that was implemented when car ignition barrel replacement thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car does a new ignition switch require a new key not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to repair your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. This fob instead of the standard key, has a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing it to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as activating the car with a press of a button. Despite their ease of use, these keys come at more expensive than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.

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

However, smart keys can also be a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your car an individual could pick up the low frequency signal and begin your car by inserting it in a compatible ignition. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can affect the cost of replacing a key. As a rule older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than those with more modern features. Some models also require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob in order to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.