Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key is typically made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Depending on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys: mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys come with a metal head that is inserted in the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't have any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance using the remote control instead of having to insert the key into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so however they cost a bit more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you have trouble starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. Having this part replaced is likely to cost more than the average key replacement however the security that comes from knowing that your car is safe is worth the cost.

If the cylinder of your ignition cylinder replacement near me lock is stuck or can't be put into the ignition lock repair near me, gently jiggle the key. This can help free the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged due to frequent use. However, it is important to remember that this approach isn't always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to spend less on an alternative key if you have traditional keys. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle 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 need any special programming to work with your car.

Transponder chips are often found in keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. These chips work by sending an electronic signal from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and able to start your engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which transmit an entirely different signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if a person manages to steal the key and open your vehicle, it won't be able to start.

Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows you to unlock or lock your car, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars built after the '90s, as they're an easy method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

If you have keys that need replacing be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealers charge a fee to program the new key fob, but you can save cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when it is not in use. This kind of key is available from an auto dealer, or even online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of keys and send signals to your car when it is within range. The car's computer or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are incorporated into most modern vehicles and transmit an exclusive code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths can modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that have no integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on features and manufacturer.

A key fob that has a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, not including 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, it's possible to replace the shank and blade. Additionally certain types of keys come with VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorized use when they are they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the car. This prevents thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be found on vehicles made in the past 20 years. The chip on these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The car's computer examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. You won't be able to start your car without an transponder key.

Be aware that a car dealer will charge you a fee for you to purchase an updated transponder. They are usually the only ones in town who can make the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technique called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology can help prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring useless.

You may notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car ignition replacement to 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 having these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to replace your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. The fob instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors and opening the car with the push a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.

The smart keys function through they have LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics, which identify it as a valid smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and starts its engine.

However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far from your vehicle, someone could intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by inserting it in an ignition compatible with. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The kind of car you drive and its model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. As a general rule older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Some models also require keys that are integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're anxious about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths are able to offer a replacement at a lower cost and offer better service than a dealership.