9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Based on the kind of key, prices vary. Some car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's an excellent chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys are made of metal with a head which is placed in the ignition, then turned to start the car. They are easy to duplicate and do not contain electronic components. If you have a traditional lock, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost you less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance using remote controls, rather than being put into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the normal key.

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

If you've experienced problems getting your car ignition key replacement to start, it could be the result of an issue with the ignition switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a typical key replacement, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe makes it worth the expense.

If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help release the lock wafers that might be a little damaged due to frequent usage. However, it is important to note that this method isn't always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to pay less for a replacement key if your vehicle has a traditional key. They have a key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and then turned to start your vehicle. They 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 commonly found in the keys of modern vehicles to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures only a valid and working key is used to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send an updated signal each time they are used. This means that if someone steals the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, 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 way to make your vehicle more safe from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

If you own an old key fob that requires replacing you should be prepared to spend more because they require extra programming. The majority of dealers will charge an additional fee to program the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe specific sequences of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob itself could cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's an armed weapon with blades for self-defense in parking lots however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not in use. This kind of key can be purchased at a locksmith, auto dealer, or even online however the price will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the key's functions and transmit a signal to your car when they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are incorporated into the majority of modern vehicles and transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths can change the chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

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

A key fob that has an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. The component pieces can often be bought separately, so if the key fob itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the blade and shank. In addition certain types of keys may include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorized use when they are inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and also makes it harder for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be used on cars built in the last 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 car's computer checks the code and starts the engine if it matches. Without a functioning transponder key, you won't be able to start your vehicle.

Be aware that a car dealer will charge a premium for you to purchase an updated transponder. They are usually the only one who can make the specific type of key your car requires. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves started using a technology called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs. These can communicate with your car to start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring useless.

If you have transponder keys you might be noticing that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear down. The grooves in the lock move the pins into a position that allows your car can start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these problems, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. Rather than using a regular key, this one has a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at the press of a button. Although they are convenient however, these keys are a higher price than traditional or transponder keys because of their integrated technology.

They function by having the LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the interior electronics which identify the smart key as valid. Once the car is identified, it removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.

Smart keys could present a risk to safety. If you're far from your car it is possible for someone to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car ignition replacement by simply putting it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to minimize this risk.

The kind of vehicle you drive and its model year can impact the cost of replacement keys. In general, older vehicles have lower replacement keys than newer models. Also, some models may require keys that are integrated with the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. If you're worried about how much your replacement will cost contact a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at a lower cost and offer better service than a dealership.