How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

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

Mechanical Key

There's the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys are simple and have a metal head that is inserted in the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic keys An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to be operated from a distance with an electronic remote instead of being placed into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools. However, they cost more than a regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've experienced problems with your car starting it may be a sign of an issue with the ignition switch. The replacement of this component will probably cost more than a standard key replacement but the assurance from knowing that your car ignition locked is safe is worth the cost.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This will help release the lock wafers that may have been slightly damaged due to frequent usage. It is important to note that this approach isn't always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for a replacement key if your car has traditional keys. They are made of metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to turn it on to start it. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are commonly found in the keys of modern vehicles to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key can be used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send every time they are used. This means that if someone takes the key away and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your car, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the ignition. These are more common on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great method to secure your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacement, be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. Most dealers will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for specific sequences of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's a bladed weapon for parking lot self-defense however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key can be available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or online however it will cost more than traditional keys.

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

Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip in could cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $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, you can replace the blade and shank. Some of these keys may include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This stops thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the last two decades, chances are it uses a transponder key. The chip on keys can help prevent theft by sending 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 if it matches. Without a functioning transponder key you won't be able to start your car.

If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key you need to know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a fee for the service. This is due to the fact that they're the only place that can produce the specific kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, when car thieves started using a technique called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by making hot-wiring useless.

If you have transponder keys, you may notice that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are starting to wear down. The grooves inside the lock are able to move the pins to a point where your car can start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing issues like this it's time to contact a professional auto locksmith to change your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Instead of using a standard key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and starting the engine with the press of a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.

The smart keys function by having the 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 body and doors to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

However, smart keys can also pose a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your vehicle, someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by inserting it into an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of replacing a key. In general, older cars have lower keys to replace than the latest models. Certain models may require a keyless system that is integrated with the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost you can call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to going to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement for less money and provide better service than a dealership.