10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car key can be a major hassle. A replacement key is usually found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.

Depending on the kind of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Some types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob as well as transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is a good chance that you have a classic mechanical key if your car was built prior to the '90s. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for a cost of less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to be operated from a distance using remote controls, rather than being put into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools for doing so, although they do cost more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer on the vehicle to ensure that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've experienced problems when your car starts it may be the result of an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard key but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure your vehicle is secure.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or cannot be placed in Try gently jiggling the key. This can help release the lock wafers that might have been slightly damaged by frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes result in further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to spend less on a replacement key if you have an old-fashioned key. These keys feature a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to turn it on to start it. 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 included in the keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is in use and is able to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This ensures that if someone steals the key and your car ignition locked doesn't start.

Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock, and open your car without having to insert it into the ignition. These are more common for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your vehicle from theft, and give you more convenience.

If you own an old key fob that requires replacement be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob, but you can save cash by following the owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 and $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key might seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds into a fob. This type of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or even online however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the functions of the key and send an alert to your vehicle 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, which have been in use since 1995, are embedded in many modern vehicles. They 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.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 and $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with an integrated chip can range from $500 or more, based 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 replacing batteries and programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some keys include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This prevents thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the past two decades, it's likely it uses a transponder key. The chip inside these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car ignition replacement when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by your car ignition switch's computer, and the engine is started when the code matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle without a transponder key.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key, you must be aware that the dealership selling your car ignition locked will charge you a premium for the service. They are usually the only people in town who can cut the specific type of key that your car requires. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip into their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is because the grooves move little pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing issues like this, it's time to call a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Instead of a traditional key, this type of key has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you do standard tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at the click of the button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

They function by having they have LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as an authentic smart key. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and begins its engine.

However, smart keys could also pose a security risk. If you're not far from your car there's a chance that someone can intercept the low-frequency signal and begin your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to minimize the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you use can also influence the cost of a replacement key. As a general rule older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than newer ones. Also, some models may require keys that are connected to the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able to offer a replacement at cheaper and provide superior service than a dealership.