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

How Much Does an ignition key replacement cost (click for more info)?

Losing your car key could be a major headache. A replacement key is typically obtained by making an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith.

Costs vary based on type. Some types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's an excellent chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These simple keys are metal with a head which is put into the ignition and turned to start the car ignition locked. They are easy to duplicate and don't contain electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith ignition replacement locksmith and will cost less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to be operated from a distance using remote controls instead of being placed into the ignition lock repair services. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this however they cost more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.

If you've had trouble getting your car to start it may be due to a faulty ignition switch. Replacing this component will probably cost more than the average key replacement, but the assurance with knowing your vehicle is safe is worth the investment.

If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently move the key. This can help free the lock wafers that might have gotten damaged over time due to frequent use. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes result in further damage.

Remote Key

You'll pay less for a replacement key if your car has traditional keys. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the fix ignition switch and then turned to start the vehicle. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't require special programming to function with your car.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might contain a transponder chip inside it to help prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures only a valid and working key can be inserted to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they're used so that even if someone does manage to get the key and enter your car, it won't capable of starting.

Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows you to unlock or lock your car, as well being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk without having to physically insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars manufactured after the '90s, as they're a simple method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and give you added convenience.

You will have to pay more if you need to replace a keyfob because it requires extra programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe specific sequences of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 and $100.

Switchblade Key

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

Key fobs control the functions of your keys and send an alert when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer in the car will detect the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are present in most modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost ignition key.

Traditional keys can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob that has a switchblade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and the programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, so if the key itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the blade and shank. Additionally certain types of keys can include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. This deters thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be used on vehicles that were made in the past 20 years. The chip in these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by your car's computer and the engine is started when the code matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle without the transponder key.

If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key you need to know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a fee for the service. They are usually the only people in town who can cut the exact type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves started using a technique called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology prevents car theft since it renders hot-wiring ineffective.

You may notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves in the lock allow the pins to move to a point where your car is able to start. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these problems you should call an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. This fob, instead of using the standard key, has a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the pressing of a button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are more expensive than traditional or transponder keys due to their integrated technology.

The smart keys function through the LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys can pose a safety risk. If you're too far away from your car it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The kind of car you drive and the model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. In general, older models tend to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that's connected to the fob to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're worried about how much your replacement will cost contact an area Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at a lower price and usually provide superior service than the dealership.