How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Costs vary based on type. Some car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob as well as transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was built before the 1990s there is a good likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These keys are made of metal with a head which is inserted into the ignition and turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic key an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it for a cost of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used. 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 easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so, although they do cost a little more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys, Ignition Key Replacement Cost introduced in 1995, are fitted 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 cost more to cut and program.

If you have difficulties starting your car it could be due to a defective switch. Having this part replaced is likely to cost more than the average key replacement, but the security that comes from knowing that your car is secure makes it worth the cost.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or unable to be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will help release the lock wafers that could have been damaged due to frequent use. However, it's important to keep in mind that this is not always successful and can sometimes cause more damage.

Remote Key

You can expect 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 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 found in the keys of modern vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures only a valid and working key is used to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that if anyone is able to steal the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs work as remote controls, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without having to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in vehicles made in the 1990s, since they're a simple way to make your car more secure from theft and give you added convenience.

If you have a key fob that needs replacement, be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealerships charge a fee for programming a new key fob, however, you can save money by following your owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key might appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually an innovative key that folds up into the fob. This type of key can be available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and send signals when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer in the car will detect the signal and permit the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost.

Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob that has a built-in chip can range from $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features offered by.

A key fob that has an adjustable blade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from forcing your fix ignition switch cylinder to open, and will make it harder for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be used on cars built in the last 20 years. The chip in keys can help prevent theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine in the event that it matches. Without a working transponder key you won't be able to start your vehicle.

If you're thinking of purchasing an updated transponder key, you need to know that the car dealership will charge you a fee for the service. This is because they're often the only shop in town that can make the type of key that your car needs. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key for only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are a security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 1980s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip can communicate with the car and start it. This technology prevents car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You might observe 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 is able to start. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing any of these issues you should contact an auto locksmith professional to change your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. This fob, instead of using an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing it to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the press of a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

The smart keys function by using they have LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior, which identify it as a valid smart key. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. If you're not far from your car it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The type of vehicle you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. In general older models are more likely to have more expensive replacement keys than the newer models. Certain models may require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Call a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can offer an upgrade at a lower price and often offer better service than the dealership.