How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys is a huge hassle. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

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

Mechanical Key

If your car ignition locked was manufactured prior to the 1990s There is a good likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These simple keys are metal with a head which is placed in the ignition, then turned to start the vehicle. These keys are easy to duplicate and do not contain electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the '90s and are designed to be operated by an electronic remote, rather than being placed into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to accomplish this however they cost more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the correct 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 been experiencing trouble with your car starting it might be a sign of an ignition switch that is not working properly. This part will cost more than a standard one, however, it's worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or cannot be inserted, try gently jiggling the key. This will help release the lock wafers that may be a little damaged due to frequent usage. However, it's important to keep in mind that this method isn't always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

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

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, the key might have a transponder chip in it to help in preventing theft. The chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and is able to turn on your engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit every time they are used. This means that if anyone is able to steal the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are essentially an electronic remote control that lets you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in vehicles made after the '90s, as they're an easy way to make your car more secure from theft and give you added convenience.

You will have to pay more when you have to replace a keyfob because it requires additional programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to the exact sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's an armed weapon with blades for parking lot self-defense however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key can be purchased at a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet but the cost will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your key and transmit a signal when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer within the car will detect the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips are integrated into newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob that has a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob with a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, including the price of a new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, meaning that if the key fob itself isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car ignition locked's computer and immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder to open, and also makes it more difficult for them copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be used on cars made in the past 20 years. These keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This can help prevent vehicle theft. The code is checked by your car's computer and the engine starts if the code matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle if you don't have a transponder key.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key, you need to know that the car ignition key replacement dealership will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're usually the only one in town that can make the type of key your car needs. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are a security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car ignition barrel replacement near me's engine to start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by making hot-wiring ineffective.

If you own transponder keys you might notice that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear down. The grooves on the lock move the pins to a position where your car can begin. You'll also notice 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 any of these issues you should contact a professional auto locksmith to repair your key.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. Instead of using a standard key, this fob contains an electronic chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine with the press of a button. Despite their ease of use, these keys come at more expensive than traditional or transponder keys because of the integrated technology.

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

However, smart keys could also pose a security risk. If you're far from your vehicle it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal and begin your car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit this risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of replacing a key. In general older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than those with more modern features. Certain models may require a keyless system that is integrated with the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about how the replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealership. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.