How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys is a huge hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Depending on the kind of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Some car keys are less expensive to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that are available that include mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's an excellent chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your car was manufactured before the '90s. These simple keys are metal with a head that is put into the ignition barrel replacement near me, then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost you less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated by an electronic remote instead of being placed into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so although they will cost a little more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.

If you've had trouble with your car starting it may be the result of a faulty ignition switch. Replacing this component will probably cost more than a standard key replacement however the assurance with knowing your vehicle is safe is worth the investment.

If your mobile ignition lock repair services lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be inserted into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can help free the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged over time from frequent use. It is important to remember that this method isn't always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has a traditional key and lock, you'll pay less to replace it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to turn it on to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't require any special software to work with your car.

Transponder chips are commonly included in the keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. These chips work by sending a signal from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and able to start your engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they're used, so that even if someone manages to take the key and then open your car, it won't in a position to start.

Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without having to insert them into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in vehicles made after the '90s, as they're an easy method to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you additional convenience.

You will have to pay more if you have to replace the keyfob since it requires extra programming. Most dealerships 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 specific sequences 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 car key with a switchblade may appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually an innovative key that folds down into the fob. This type of key can be available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or even online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your key and will send a signal when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer within the car will detect the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips are integrated into 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 they become damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that has a chip built in could cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob that incorporates the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, so if the key itself isn't damaged, you can replace the blade and shank. Some of these keys may also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This stops thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it much more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the past two decades, it's likely that it uses a transponder key. These keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the van ignition repair. This can help prevent vehicle theft. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine if it matches. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle if you don't have the transponder key.

If you're considering buying an updated transponder key, you must be aware that the dealership selling your car will charge you a fee for the service. They are usually the only one that can create the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves started using a technology known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology prevents car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.

If you have a transponder key, you may be noticing that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear out. The grooves on the lock move the pins to a point where your car can begin. You will also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you are having these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to change your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. This fob instead of the standard key, has a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing you to do basic tasks like locking the doors and trunk, as well as starting the car with the press of a button. Although they are convenient, these keys come at an additional cost than traditional or transponder keys because of the integrated technology.

These smart keys work through the LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the interior electronics which recognize the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

Smart keys could present a risk to safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far away from your car, someone could intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by inserting it into an ignition compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.

The model of vehicle you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. As a rule older cars tend to have more expensive replacement keys than the newer models. Additionally, certain models might require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob in order to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're anxious about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at less money and provide better service than a dealership.