20 Trailblazers Lead The Way In Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys can be a huge hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Costs vary based on type. Some types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the year 1990 there is a good chance that you still have a mechanical key. These simple keys come with a metal head that is placed in the ignition, and then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional lock, it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools for doing so although they will cost 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 to ensure that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. The replacement of this component will probably cost more than a standard key replacement however the security that comes from knowing that your vehicle is safe is worth the expense.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which could have been damaged over time from frequent use. However, it is important to remember that this is not always effective and may cause more damage.

Remote Key

If your car has an old-fashioned key and lock, you'll pay less to replace it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to start it. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming to function with your vehicle.

If you're driving a more modern vehicle, the key might contain a transponder chip inside it to prevent theft. The chips transmit 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 keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send an updated signal each time they are used. This means that if anyone is able to steal the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs are basically an electronic remote control that lets you to lock or unlock your car, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the repair ignition lock cylinder. Key fobs are also more popular in cars manufactured after the '90s, as they're a convenient method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and give you additional convenience.

You'll have to pay more when you have to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. Most dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob but you can save money by following your owner's instructions to reprogram the key 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 a unique key that folds into a fob. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online but the cost will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the key's functions and transmit an alert to your vehicle when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths can modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets ranging between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip in could cost up to $500, based on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob that incorporates an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a brand new battery and programming. The parts can typically be purchased separately, so if the key fob itself isn't damaged, you can replace the blade and shank. In addition, some of these types of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the vehicle. This deters thieves from attempting to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the past two decades, it's likely it has a transponder key. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine when it matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle without an transponder key.

You should be aware that a car dealer will charge a premium for you to purchase an updated transponder. This is because they're usually the only place that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a security measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology helps prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car to start up. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing issues like this you should contact an expert auto locksmith to repair ignition lock cylinder your key.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. This fob instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors and activating the car with a pressing of a button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are a higher price than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.

They function by using the LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the inside electronics that recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once it is recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

Smart keys can pose a safety risk. If you're far from your vehicle it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by simply placing it in a compatible Fix Ignition lock slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to minimize the risk.

The type of vehicle you drive and its model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models tend to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're worried about how much your replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to going to the dealer. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at a lower cost and usually provide better service than the dealership.