The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys can be a huge hassle. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.

Based on the kind of key, prices vary. Some car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys available that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured before the year 1990 There is a good likelihood that you have mechanical keys. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic key an auto locksmith could easily cut the key and program it for a cost of less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the early 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance using remote controls instead of being put into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a standard 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 right key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've had trouble when your car starts, it could be the result of a faulty fix ignition switch switch. Replacing this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement however the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe is worth the expense.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or isn't able to be placed in, try gently jiggling the key. This could help to release the lock wafers that could have been damaged over time due to frequent use. This method is not always successful and may result in further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has a traditional key that is a traditional key, you will pay less for replacing it. The keys are made of metal key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith ignition replacement cost and they don't require any special programming to function with your vehicle.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, your key may contain a transponder chip inside it to help in preventing theft. The chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and able to start your engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send a new signal each time they are used. This means that if anyone takes the key away, your car won't start.

Key fobs work as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without the need to put it in the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars built after the 90s, as they're a simple method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to give you additional convenience.

You'll have to pay more if you have to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming a new key ignition replacement fob, but you can save money by following your owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a unique key that folds down into the fob. This kind 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 are electronic devices that manage the functions of keys and send signals to your car when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are present in most modern vehicles and transmit an exclusive code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on features and manufacturer.

A key fob that has a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, including the price of a new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, so when the key fob isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. Some of these keys may also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder to open, and also makes it difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the past two decades, chances are it uses a transponder key. These keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition key replacement. This helps prevent vehicle theft. The code is verified by your car's computer, and the engine will start when the code matches. You won't be allowed to start your car without an transponder key.

It is important to know that car dealers will charge a premium if you want to get an updated transponder. This is because they're usually the only shop in town who can create the type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for less than the cost.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring useless.

You may notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves inside the lock are able to move the pins into a position that allows your car is able to start. You will 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 are experiencing these issues you should contact an auto locksmith to repair your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. The fob instead of the standard key, has an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors and starting the car with the press of a button. Although they are convenient however, these keys are an additional cost than transponder keys or traditional keys due to their integrated technology.

These smart keys work by having LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the inside electronics, which identify it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and starts its engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're far from your vehicle, someone could take the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by simply placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can also influence the cost of a replacement key. As a rule older models are more likely to have more expensive replacement keys than those with more modern features. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's connected to the fob in order to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at a lower price and usually provide better service than the dealership.