The 9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a major headache. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys available that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

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

Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to be operated by an electronic remote, rather than being inserted into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost a bit more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've experienced problems when your car starts, it could be a sign of a faulty ignition switch. Replacing this component will probably cost more than a standard key replacement, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe makes it worth the investment.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or can't be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This can help free the lock wafers that could have been damaged over time from frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with a traditional key and lock, you'll pay less to replace it. They are made of metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to start it. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require any special programming to function with your vehicle.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to help in preventing theft. These chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a receiver inside the fix ignition switch to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and is able to start the engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used so that even if someone manages to steal the key and open your car, it won't in a position to start.

Key fobs are basically a remote control that allows you to lock or unlock your car, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk without having to physically insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in vehicles made after the 90s, as they're a simple way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to provide you with additional convenience.

You'll have to pay more for need to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual for the exact sequence of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself could cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's the bladed weapon used for parking lot self-defense however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not in use. This type of key is available at a locksmith, auto dealer or even online but the cost will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the functions of the key and send signals to your car when it is within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will recognize the signal, and allow the engine start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.

Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob that incorporates a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys can include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder to open, and it will also make it more difficult for them duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the past two decades, it's likely that it has a transponder key. The chip inside keys can help prevent theft by sending the car ignition key replacement with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by the computer in your car, and the engine is started if the code matches. You won't be able to start your car without a transponder key.

It is important to know that car dealers will charge you a fee for you to purchase a new transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only place that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves inside the lock move the pins to a position where your car can start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are having these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to repair your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Instead of a traditional key, this one has a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you do standard tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and starting the engine with the click of one button. Despite their convenience, these keys come at a higher price than transponder keys or traditional keys because of the integrated technology.

These smart keys work by having LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the interior electronics which recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're too far away from your vehicle there's a chance that someone can intercept the low-frequency signal and begin your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can also influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older vehicles have lower replacement keys than modern models. Some models also require a keyless entry system that's connected to the fob in order to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. If you're worried about how the replacement cost will be you can call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at less money and provide superior service than a dealership.