The 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 an auto ignition key replacement dealership or a locksmith.

Costs differ based on the type. Certain kinds of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition key replacement keys available: mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These keys are made of metal with a head that is placed in the ignition and then turned to start the vehicle. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic lock an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it for the price of less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate by a remote controller instead of being placed into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools for doing so, although they do cost a bit more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've experienced problems with your car starting it might be a sign of an issue with the van ignition repair switch. This component will cost more than a standard one, however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or cannot be put in Try gently jiggling the key. This can help free the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged due to frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for an alternative key if your car has a traditional key. These keys have a metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and 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 vehicle.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might contain a transponder chip inside it to help to prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key can be inserted to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send an updated signal each time they are used. This ensures that if anyone is able to steal the key, your car won't start.

Key fobs work as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without the need to put it in the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured after the 90s, as they're an easy way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

If you own an old key fob that requires replacement, be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. Most dealerships charge a fee to program a new key fob but you can save some money by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot however it's really an innovative car ignition replacement near me key that folds down into the fob when not in use. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online however the price will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs regulate the functions of your key and will send a signal when they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will recognize 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 is able to read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip if lost or damaged.

Simple, inexpensive fobs without an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob that has a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob with an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. The parts can typically be bought separately, so if the key fob 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 contain resistors which prevent unauthorized use when placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will stop thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder, and will make it difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be used on vehicles that were made in the last 20 years. The chip in these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine when it matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle if you don't have a transponder key.

You should be aware that car dealers will charge you a fee for you to purchase an updated transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only place that can make the kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to combat this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology prevents car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves in the lock allow the pins to move to a position where your car is able to start. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're having these issues you should contact an auto locksmith in order to change your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. Rather than using a regular key, this fob contains a computer chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and starting the engine with just the push of one button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are a higher price than transponder keys or traditional keys due to their integrated technology.

To function the smart keys work, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle that activate when you turn a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics which recognize it as a valid smart key. Once recognized, the car ignition switch replacement disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

However, smart keys can also pose a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far away from your car, someone could be able to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by putting it in an ignition compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The model of vehicle you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than 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 concerned about the replacement will cost you can call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able to provide an upgrade at a lower price and often offer better service than the dealership.