How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

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

Mechanical Key

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

Key fobs were popular in the '90s and are designed to operate from a distance using an electronic remote instead of being inserted into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are equipped 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 harder to duplicate and generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you have trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than a typical key replacement but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is secure makes it worth the investment.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or unable to be placed 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 effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

You'll pay less for a replacement key if your car has a traditional key. The keys are made of metal key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the vehicle. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to work with your car.

If you're driving a more modern car, your key could have a transponder chip in it to help in preventing theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key can be used to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used so that even if a person manages to get the key and enter your car, it won't be able to start.

Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without having to insert them into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars manufactured after the 90s, as they're a convenient way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to give you additional convenience.

You'll have to pay more for need to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. Most dealers charge a fee for programming the new key fob, but you can save some money by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like a bladed weapon for self-defense in parking lots however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or on the internet, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and send signals when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are incorporated into many modern vehicles. They 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.

Keys that are traditional can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in could cost up to $500, based on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the price of a 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 blade and shank. Certain keys might also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This deters thieves from trying to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the last two decades, chances are it uses a transponder key. These keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle without an transponder key.

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

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a method called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and then start 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 wear out. This is because the grooves shift little pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car 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 are having these issues then it's time to call an auto locksmith ignition replacement locksmith to repair your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to do standard tasks such as opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine at the click of one button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the integrated technology.

These smart keys work through LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside 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 electronics in the interior which recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're too far away from your car it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal and start your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The kind of vehicle you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. As a rule older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Additionally, certain models might require keys that are connected to the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about how much your replacement will cost contact an area Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to heading to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement for cheaper and provide superior service than a dealership.