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 is a huge hassle. A replacement key can usually be made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Costs vary based on kind of key. Certain kinds of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is a good chance that you have a classic mechanical key if your car ignition lock was manufactured before the '90s. These keys are made of metal with a head that can be placed in the ignition and turned to start the car. 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 will cost well under $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control rather than having to insert the key into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so however they cost a little more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys, first 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 will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. The replacement of this component will probably cost more than a typical key replacement but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe makes it worth the cost.

If your ignition key replacement cost lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged over time due to frequent use. It is important to keep in mind that this is not always successful and can sometimes cause more damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with a traditional key that is a traditional key, you will pay less for replacing it. They are made of metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to turn it on 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 typically included in the keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition lock repair services. This ensures that only a valid and working key can be used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that even if someone takes the key away the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs work as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your car without having to insert it into the ignition. They are more prevalent on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your vehicle from theft, and give you more convenience.

If you have keys that need replacement be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealerships will charge an additional fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for the exact sequence of button presses and turns to program it 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 a novel key that folds down into a fob. This type of key can be available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or even online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and send signals when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Simple, inexpensive fobs without an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets ranging between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can range from $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob that incorporates a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be bought separately, so if the key itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the shank and blade. Some keys include VATS-Keys 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 deters thieves from attempting to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be used on vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. The chip on keys can help prevent theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the van ignition repair. The code is verified by your car's computer and the engine is started when the code is found to match. You won't be allowed to start your car without a transponder key.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key you need to know 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 type of key that your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 1980s. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car to start it. This technology stops car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

If you have a transponder key, you may notice that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are starting to wear down. The grooves in the lock allow the pins to move to a point where your car is able to start. You will also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing these problems you should contact an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. This fob, instead of using a standard key, contains a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the doors and trunk, as well as starting the car with the pressing of a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

The smart keys function through the LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior, which identify it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key has been recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer and starts its engine.

However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. If you're too far away from your car ignition replacement, someone could detect the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you use can also influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Some models might also require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're worried about how the replacement will cost, call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide an upgrade at a lower price and often offer better service than the dealership.