How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing 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 depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Some types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's the possibility that you own a traditional mechanical key if the car was built prior to the '90s. These keys have a metal head that is inserted 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 well under $50.

Key fobs became popular in the '90s and are designed to be operated by an electronic remote instead of being put into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools for doing so although they will cost more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've been experiencing trouble when your car starts it may be a sign of an issue with the ignition switch. Replacing this component will probably cost more than the average key replacement however the security that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe is worth the investment.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be inserted Try gently jiggling the key. This will help release the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged due to frequent use. However, it is important to remember that this is not always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

You'll spend less on the replacement key if your car has a traditional key. The keys are made of metal shaft that's inserted in the ignition, and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming to work with your car.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, the key might include a transponder chip within it to help to prevent theft. The chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is used and is able to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This ensures that if anyone takes the key away, your car won't start.

Key fobs are basically 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. They are more prevalent on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your vehicle from theft and provide you more convenience.

If you own an old key fob that requires replacing, be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob but you can save some money by following your owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob will cost you 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 into a fob. This type of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or online, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your key and send a signal when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will detect the signal, and allow the engine start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are incorporated into most modern vehicles and transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

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

A key fob equipped with a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and 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 include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the vehicle. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and it will also make it more difficult for them copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the past two decades, it's likely that it has a transponder key. They transmit a number when they are inserted into the ignition key replacement cost. This helps to prevent vehicle theft. The code is verified by your car's computer, and the engine starts when the code matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle without an transponder key.

If you're thinking of purchasing a new transponder key you must be aware that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're often the only one in town that can make the type of key your car needs. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technique called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 80s. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs. These can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring useless.

If you have a transponder key you may be noticing that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear out. This is because the grooves move tiny pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. 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 having these issues you should call an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. The fob instead of an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors and opening the car with the push a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.

These smart keys work by using they have LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as an authorized smart key. When the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

However, smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far away from your car, someone could intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by placing it into an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 cm to reduce the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can affect the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule older models are more likely to have more expensive replacement keys than the newer models. Some models may also require a keyless system that is integrated with the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about how much your replacement will cost you can call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to going to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at less money and provide superior service than a dealership.