How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Depending on the kind of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that are available including mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's an excellent chance that you have a classic mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is placed in the ignition, then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance using the remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so although they will cost a little more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you're having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. Having this part replaced is likely to cost more than the average key replacement however the security that comes from knowing that your car is safe is worth the expense.

If your ignition and key replacement lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be inserted by gently turning the key. This will help release the lock wafers that could have been damaged over time due to frequent use. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for a replacement key if you have an old-fashioned key. They are made of metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to turn it on to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to function with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are commonly found in keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips work by sending a signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is used 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 even if someone steals the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs are essentially remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your car, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk without having to insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured after the '90s, as they're an easy way to make your car more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

If you own a key fob that needs replacement, be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge a fee to program the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual for a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key might sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually an innovative key that folds into a fob. This type of key is available at a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet however the price will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your key and transmit a signal 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 integrated into newer vehicles since 1995. They 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 lost or damaged.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. The cost of a replacement 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 equipped with an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, meaning that if the key itself isn't harmed you can just replace the shank and blade. Certain keys might also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and G28carkeys.co.uk immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, and will make it harder for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be used on vehicles that were manufactured within the past 20 years. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This can help prevent vehicle theft. The code is verified by your car's computer and the engine starts if the code matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle without an transponder key.

It is important to know that car dealers will charge a premium when you're looking to purchase an updated transponder. They are often the only people in town who can cut the exact type of key your car requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 1980s. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by making hot-wiring useless.

You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins within the lock to a position that allows your car to begin. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you are having these issues, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. The key instead of a standard key, contains a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and doors and starting the car with the press of a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

They function by using the LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open 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 car is identified, it stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

Smart keys can present a risk to safety. If you're not far from your vehicle it is possible for someone to intercept the low-frequency signal and begin your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The type of vehicle you drive and its model year can also affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models have cheaper keys to replace than the latest models. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that's connected to the fob to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost contact the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement at a lower cost and offer superior service than a dealership.