How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Costs differ based on the type. Some fix car ignition keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These basic keys are made of steel with a head which is placed in the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and cost less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools for doing so however they cost a little more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer 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 getting your car to start it might be the result of an ignition switch that is not working properly. Replacing this component will probably cost more than a standard key replacement, but the security that comes with knowing your vehicle is secure makes it worth the investment.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or isn't able to be inserted, try gently jiggling the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged due to frequent use. However, it's important to remember that this is not always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has an old-fashioned key that is a traditional key, you will pay less to replace it. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to start it. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to function with your car.

Transponder chips are often included in the keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures that only a valid and working key is used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit every time they are used. This ensures that if someone steals the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the ignition. These are more common on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to secure your car from theft, and give you more convenience.

If you own an old key fob that requires replacing be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming the new key fob, however, you can save money by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The car key with a switchblade may appear 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 type of key can be bought from a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet but the cost will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your key and transmit signals when they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob with a chip into it can cost as high as $500, depending on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob that has an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Certain keys might include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorized use when they are placed in the ignition cylinder. They send different 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

Transponder keys can be used on vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. The chip inside these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine in the event that it matches. Without a working transponder key it will be impossible to start your car ignition replacement.

If you're thinking of purchasing a new transponder key, you need to know that the dealership for your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're often the only one in town who can create the type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s when car thieves started using a technology called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology helps prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.

You might observe that the grooves of your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car key ignition replacement near me to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's time to call an expert auto locksmith to repair your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform standard tasks like opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine at the click of a button. Despite their ease of use, these keys come at an additional cost than transponder keys or traditional keys because of their integrated technology.

To function the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. These antennas activate when you turn the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys could be a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far away from your car, someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by inserting it in an ignition compatible with. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to minimize this risk.

The type of car you drive and the model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models tend to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about how the replacement cost will be contact a local Pop-A-Lock branch to get a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able offer a replacement at a lower cost and offer better service than a dealership.