How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a major headache. A replacement key is usually obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's an excellent chance that you have a classic mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys are simple and have a metal head that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic lock an auto ignition key replacement locksmith could easily cut the key and program it for the price of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than a normal key.

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

If you've been experiencing trouble when your car starts it may be a sign of a faulty ignition lock repair services switch. This component will cost more than a standard one, but it is worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or isn't able to be inserted, try gently jiggling the key. This could assist in releasing the lock wafers which may have been damaged by frequent use. However, it is important to note that this approach isn't always successful and may cause more damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for the replacement key if your car has traditional keys. The keys are made of metal shaft that's inserted in the ignition and turned to start the vehicle. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special software to work with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are typically 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 valid and working key can be used to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, that send the same signal each time they're used so that even if someone manages to steal the key and open your car, it won't be able to 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 insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in vehicles made after the '90s, as they're an easy method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and give you added convenience.

If you own an old key fob that requires replacement be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming the new key fob, but you can save some money by following your owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually an innovative key that folds down into a fob. This kind of key is available from an auto ignition key replacement dealer, or on the internet however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the key's functions and transmit a signal to your car ignition key replacement when they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and provide a unique, only-your-car read-code. Professional car locksmiths are able to reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. These are usually available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets ranging between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that comes with a chip in could cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob with the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, including the price of a new battery and programming. The components can usually be bought separately, so when the key fob isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the blade and shank. Some of these keys may also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the last two decades, it's likely it is equipped with a transponder. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps to prevent theft of your vehicle. The code is checked by your car's computer and the engine will start when the code matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works you won't be able to start your vehicle.

It is important to know that car dealers will charge you a fee when you're looking to purchase an updated transponder. They are often the only one who can make the exact type of key your car requires. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key at a less than the cost.

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 stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may observe that the grooves of your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving 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 doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues you should contact an auto locksmith in order to change your keys.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. Rather than using a regular key, this fob contains a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at the click of a button. Although they are convenient they are a higher price than transponder keys or traditional keys due to their integrated technology.

To work the smart keys, they are equipped with to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far away from your car, someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by placing it into an ignition that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to minimize the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can influence the cost of replacing a key. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Certain models may require a keyless system that is integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're worried about how much your replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement for a lower cost and offer better service than a dealership.