How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Based on the kind of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys available that include mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed prior to the 1990s, there is a high likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is placed in the ignition key replacement and then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic keys An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the '90s and are designed to operate from a distance with remote controls instead of being placed into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so however they cost more than a traditional key.

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

If you've been experiencing trouble with your car starting it might be due to an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost you more than a standard one, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your car is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or can't be placed in, try gently jiggling the key. This will aid in releasing the lock wafers that may have been damaged from frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

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

Transponder chips are often included in the keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key is used to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that even if someone takes the key away the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk without having to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built after the '90s, as they're a simple way to make your car more secure from theft and to give you additional 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 the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to the exact sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key ignition replacement near me key might appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds up into a fob. This kind of key can be purchased at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer or even online however the price will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of keys and send an alert to your vehicle when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are present in most modern vehicles and transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional car locksmiths are able to reprogram your 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 that cost between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on features and manufacturer.

A key fob that has an adjustable blade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of new batteries and programming. If the key fob is not damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Certain keys might include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that prevent unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This deters thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be used on vehicles that were manufactured within the past 20 years. The chip on these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by the computer in your car, and the engine will start if the code matches. You will not be able to start your car without an transponder key.

You should be aware that car dealers will charge you a fee for you to purchase a new transponder. This is because they're usually the only place that can make the type of key your car needs. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key at a less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional 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 inside its key fobs to combat this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective.

You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves on the lock are able to move the pins to a position 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 experiencing these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith to repair your keys.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. This fob instead of the standard key, has a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing you do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the push a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the technology integrated.

The smart keys function by using the LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior, which identify it as an authorized smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. If you're too far away from your vehicle, someone could intercept the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive can influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older models have lower keys to replace than the latest models. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths are able to offer a replacement at less money and provide superior service than a dealership.