Where Will Ignition Key Replacement Cost Be 1 Year From Right Now?

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your fix car ignition keys is a huge hassle. A replacement key is usually obtained by making an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith.

Depending on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available that include mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is an excellent chance that you have a classic mechanical key if the car was manufactured before the '90s. These keys have a metal head that is placed in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and don't have 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 you less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to be operated from a distance with a remote controller, rather than being put into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so however they cost a little more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer and ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.

If you've had trouble getting your car to start it might be a sign of an issue with the ignition switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a typical key replacement but the security that comes from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the cost.

If your ignition lock repair services lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be inserted into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will help release the lock wafers that may have been damaged due to frequent usage. It is important to keep in mind that this method isn't always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with a traditional key, you can expect to pay less for replacing it. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to start it. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't require special programming to function with your car.

If you're driving a newer car ignition barrel replacement, your key could have a transponder chip in it to to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a genuine and functioning key can be inserted to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which send an entirely different signal each time they're used, so that even if a person manages to get the key and enter your car, it won't be in a position to start.

Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your car without the need to put it in the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built after the '90s, as they're a convenient way to make your vehicle more safe from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

You'll have to pay more when you need to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. The majority of dealers will charge an additional fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in the owner's manual to the exact sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The car ignition key replacement key with a switchblade may appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually an innovative key that folds down into a fob. This type of key can be bought at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer, or even online however the price will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and send a signal when they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and provide a unique, only-your-car read-code. Professional Car Key ignition problems locksmiths are able to change the chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement with a chip in could cost up to $500, depending on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob with a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Some keys also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This prevents thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were made in the past 20 years. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This helps prevent vehicle theft. The car's computer is able to check the code and start the engine in the event that it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works, you won't be able to start your car.

You should be aware that a car dealer will charge a premium for you to purchase an updated transponder. They are usually the only people in town who can make the specific type of key your car requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s when car thieves started using a method known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring useless.

If you have transponder keys you might observe that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are starting to wear down. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car to start. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues, it's time to call an auto locksmith professional to change your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. Instead of using a standard key, this fob contains an electronic chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine with the click of the button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the integrated technology.

To work the smart keys work, they have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you turn the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the inside electronics, which identify it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

But smart keys can also pose a security risk. If you're not far from your vehicle it is possible for someone to intercept the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The kind of vehicle you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. As a general rule older cars tend to have cheaper key replacements than the newer models. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement for cheaper and provide better service than dealerships.