How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Depending on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain kinds of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s there is a good possibility that you still have an electronic key. These basic keys are made of steel with a head that can be put into the ignition and turned to start the vehicle. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic lock An auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control rather than having to insert the key into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than a normal 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 can be harder to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.

If you have difficulties starting your car it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This part will cost you more than a standard one, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or can't be inserted by gently turning the key. This will help release the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged due to frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has a traditional key that is a traditional key, you will pay less for replacing it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is placed into the van ignition repair of the vehicle and then turned to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to work with your car.

Transponder chips are often found in keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips work by sending an electronic signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and is able to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit an updated signal each time they are used. This means that if someone steals the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock, and open your car without the need to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars manufactured after the 90s, as they're a simple method to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you additional convenience.

You'll have to pay more for need to replace a keyfob as it requires additional programming. Most dealerships charge a fee to program a new key fob but you can save money by following the owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 and $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not being used. This type of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or online, but 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 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, in use since 1995, are present in many modern vehicles. They transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key if lost or damaged.

Traditional keys can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that have no integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can range from $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob that incorporates a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, not including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Some keys include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it more difficult for them duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be found on vehicles manufactured within the past 20 years. The chip inside these keys prevents vehicle theft by sending an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by your car's computer, and the engine is started when the code matches. Without a functioning transponder key you won't be able to start your car.

Be aware that car dealers will charge a higher price if you want to get an updated transponder. They are often the only people in town who can cut the specific type of key that your car requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and then start it. This technology can help prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring obsolete.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves move little pins inside the lock into a position that allows your car to start up. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're experiencing these issues, it's time to call an expert auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. This fob, instead of using an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors and activating the car with a push a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.

To work, these smart keys have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle that activate when you turn a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the interior electronics, which identify it as an authorized smart key. When the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and begins its engine.

But smart keys can also be a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far away from your car, an individual could pick up the low frequency signal and begin your car by placing it into an ignition that is compatible with. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you use can affect the cost of a replacement key. In general older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Some models also require keys that are connected to the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about the replacement cost will be contact a local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to heading to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.