How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a major headache. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain car keys are more affordable to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob as well as transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the 1990s There is a good chance that you still have mechanical keys. These simple keys are metal with a head that can be put into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic lock An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at a cost of less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance using remote controls instead of being put into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the normal key.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are equipped 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 cost more to cut and program.

If you've experienced problems with your car starting, it could be the result of a faulty ignition switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a standard key replacement however the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your car key Ignition problems is secure makes it worth the investment.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or can't be inserted by gently turning the key. This can assist in releasing the lock wafers that might have been damaged by frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to pay less for a replacement key if your car has traditional keys. The keys are made of metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, your key may contain a transponder chip inside it to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key can be used to start the engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they're used so that even if a person 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 to set off the alarm or open the trunk, without the need to insert it into the ignition. These are more common for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great method to secure your car from theft, and give you more convenience.

You will have to pay more when you require replacing the keyfob since it requires extra programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like an armed weapon with blades for self-defense in parking lots however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not in use. This type of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or even online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and send a signal when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer within the car will recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths can change the chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that do not have an integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob that has a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob that has a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and the programming. The components can usually be bought separately, so when the key fob isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. Some of these keys may also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This prevents thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be used on cars built in the past 20 years. The chip on these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by the computer in your car, and the engine will start if the code matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle if you don't have an transponder key.

If you're thinking about getting an updated transponder key, you must be aware that the car dealership will charge you a fee for the service. This is because they're usually the only one in town that can produce the specific kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, as car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring useless.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving little pins inside the lock into a position that allows your car to begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard does a new ignition switch require a new key not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to repair your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. The fob instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing you do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors and activating the car with a push a button. Although they are convenient however, these keys are more expensive than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.

They function through 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 from the door and body to the inside electronics that recognize the smart key as valid. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far from your vehicle, an individual could pick up the low frequency signal and start your car by inserting it in an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you use can affect the cost of replacing a key. As a rule, older models tend to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Some models might also require a keyless system that is connected to the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement for cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.