How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Costs differ based on the type. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's a good chance that you have a classic mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These basic keys are made of steel with a head which is inserted into the ignition and turned to start the vehicle. They are simple to copy and do not contain electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic key An auto locksmith ignition replacement cost can easily cut it and program it at less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the early 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance with a remote controller instead of being placed into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However, they cost more than the standard key.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've been experiencing trouble getting your car to start, it could be the result of a faulty ignition switch. This component will cost more than a standard key however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your car is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or can't be inserted into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can help release the lock wafers that may be a little damaged due to frequent usage. This method is not always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to spend less on an alternative key if your car has an old-fashioned key. The keys are made of metal key shaft that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start your vehicle. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to work with your car.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, the key might contain a transponder chip inside it to help to prevent theft. The chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is in use and is able to turn on your engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit an updated signal each time they are used. This ensures that if someone takes the key away and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs work as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your car without the need to put it in the ignition. They are more prevalent on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

You will have to pay more for have to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealerships will charge the cost of programming a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to the exact sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself could 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 novel key that folds up into the fob. This kind of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or online, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of the key and send an alert to your vehicle when they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will be able to 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 chip and key when they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs with no integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for $25 to $100. A replacement key fob with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on features and manufacturer.

A key fob with a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. In addition certain types of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that make it impossible for unauthorized use to be inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This deters thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also 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 has a transponder key. The chip inside these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition lock repair near me. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine in the event that it matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle without an transponder key.

You should be aware that a car dealer will charge a higher price if you want to get a new transponder. They are usually the only ones in town who can make the exact type of key your car requires. Locksmiths, 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 came into play when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent car ignition lock theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is because the grooves move tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car to start up. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're having these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to change your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology a step further. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to do standard tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and starting the engine with just the push of the button. Despite their ease of use, these keys come at a higher price than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.

To work, these smart keys have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. These antennas are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the interior electronics which determine that the smart key is valid. When the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and begins its engine.

But smart keys can also be a safety risk. If you're not far from your car there's a chance that someone can take the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you use can affect the cost of a replacement key. In general, older models have lower keys to replace than the latest models. Some models also require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're anxious about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able offer a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.