How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a major headache. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Costs vary depending on the type. Certain car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys available that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is the possibility that you own a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is placed in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost well under $50.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated by a remote controller, rather than being inserted into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However, they cost more than a regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle, ensuring that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you have difficulties starting your car it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This part will cost you more than a standard key, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your car is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be put in by gently turning the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which could have been damaged due to frequent use. It is important to keep in mind that this is not always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has an old-fashioned key and lock, you'll pay less for replacing it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to begin it. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't require any special software to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might include a transponder chip within it to help to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and able to start your engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This ensures that if anyone is able to steal the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are essentially remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk without having to physically insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars built after the 90s, as they're an easy way to make your car more secure from theft and give you added convenience.

If you own an old key fob that requires replacing you should be prepared to spend more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob, however, you can save cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob is priced between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key might appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a novel key that folds down into the fob. This type of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or even online however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of the key and send a signal to your car 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 have been embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional car locksmiths are able to modify your key and chip when they become damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in can cost up to $500, depending on features and manufacturer.

A key fob that incorporates a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, not including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Some of these keys may also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This prevents thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

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

It is important to know that car dealers will charge a premium if you want to get a new transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only place who can create the kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for less than the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs to combat this. The chip can communicate with the car and start it. This technology helps prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring obsolete.

You may notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves on the lock move the pins to a point where your car can start. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing issues like this, it's time to call an expert auto locksmith to repair your key.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you do standard tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and starting the engine with just the push of a button. These keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due to the integrated technology.

To work the smart keys work, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle that activate when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once it is recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

But smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your car ignition switch an individual could pick up the low frequency signal and start your car by placing it into an ignition that is compatible with. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.

The type of car you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. As a general rule older cars tend to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Some models also require keys that are connected to the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about the replacement cost will be, call an area Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement for cheaper and provide superior service than a dealership.