How Much Does an Ignition key replacement cost (www.cheaperseeker.Com)?

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

Costs differ based on the type. Some types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys available including mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's the possibility that you own a traditional mechanical key if the car was manufactured before the '90s. These simple keys are metal with a head that is placed in the ignition, then turned to start the car. They are simple to copy and do not have any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated by remote controls instead of being placed into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools for doing so although they will cost a bit more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle, ensuring that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. Replacing this component is likely to cost more than a typical key replacement but the assurance from knowing that your car is secure makes it worth the expense.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be put in by gently turning the key. This could help to release the lock wafers that could have been damaged over time from frequent use. However, it's important to keep in mind that this is not always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has an old-fashioned key, you can expect to spend less money to replace it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to start it. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to function with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are often found in the keys of modern vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips work by sending a signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and is able to turn on your engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which send an entirely different signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if a person manages to get the key and enter your car, it won't be in a position to start.

Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without the need to insert it into the fix ignition switch. These are also more common in vehicles made after the 90s, as they're an easy way to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you added convenience.

You'll have to pay more for have to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe a specific sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when it is not being used. This kind of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or on the internet however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the key's functions and transmit signals to your car when it is within range. The car's computer or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are embedded in most modern vehicles and transmit an unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can modify your key and chip when they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs with no integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob that has a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob with a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally, some of these types of keys may include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that make it impossible for unauthorized use to be they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will prevent thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and also makes it difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the past two decades, chances are it uses a transponder key. The chip on keys can help prevent theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine when it matches. You won't be able to start your car without the transponder key.

Be aware that a car dealership will charge a higher price when you're looking to purchase a new transponder. This is because they're usually the only one in town that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology prevents car theft as it renders hot-wiring ineffective.

You might observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves in the lock allow the pins to move to a position where your car is able to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing issues like this it's time to contact an auto locksmith professional to replace your key.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology a step further. Instead of a traditional key, this one has 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 the button. Although they are convenient they are more expensive than traditional or transponder keys due to their integrated technology.

These smart keys work by using 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 interior electronics which recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

However, smart keys can also be a safety risk. If you're not far from your car ignition switch replacement, someone could detect the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of replacing a key. In general, older vehicles have lower replacement keys than newer models. Also, some models may require keys that are connected to the fob in order to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about how the replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at a lower cost and often offer superior service than the dealership.