How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys can be a major headache. A replacement key can usually be made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Based on the type of key, costs vary. Certain types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured before the 1990s there is a good possibility that you still have mechanical keys. These keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic keys an auto locksmith ignition replacement locksmith could easily cut it and program it for less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the '90s and are designed to operate by remote controls instead of being put into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than a regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer and ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.

If you've been experiencing trouble with your car starting, it could be the result of an ignition switch that is not working properly. This component will cost more than a standard one, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This can help free the lock wafers, which could have been damaged due to frequent use. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to spend less on a replacement key if your car has a traditional key. These keys feature a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to begin it. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to work with your car.

If you're driving a brand newer car, your key could 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 ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and is able to turn on your engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit every time they are used. This ensures that even if someone steals the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs are basically a remote control that allows you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as to set off the alarm or open the trunk, without the need to insert it into the ignition. These are more common on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your vehicle from theft, and also give you more convenience.

If you have keys that need replacing you should be prepared to spend more due to the fact that they require additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob, but you can save cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 and $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded like an armed weapon with blades for parking lot self-defense however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key can be purchased at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer or even online but the cost will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of keys and send an alert to your vehicle when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer in the car will recognize the signal and permit the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are present in the majority of modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car ignition Locksmith can read. Professional car locksmiths are able to 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 have no integrated chip. They are usually available at auto ignition key replacement parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in could cost up to $500, depending on features and manufacturer.

A key fob equipped with an adjustable blade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some keys include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which stop unauthorized use when they are placed in the mobile ignition lock repair services 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 much more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the past two decades, it's likely that it is equipped with a transponder. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps to prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine if it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works you won't be able to start your car.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key you must be aware that the dealership for your car will charge you a fee for the service. This is because they're often the only place who can create the type of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs to stop this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and then start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring useless.

If you own transponder keys you might observe that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving little pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you are experiencing these problems, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. The key instead of being the standard key, has an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and doors and activating the car with a push a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due the integrated technology.

To work the smart keys, they are equipped with to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that recognize the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're far from your vehicle there's a chance that someone can detect the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 cm to reduce the risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive can affect the cost of a replacement key. In general, older cars have lower replacement keys than modern models. Certain models may require the use of a keyless system integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're worried about how much your replacement will cost you can call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement for cheaper and provide superior service than a dealership.