How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.

Depending on the type of key, prices differ based on the type of key. Certain kinds of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob as well as transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed prior to the 1990s there is a good likelihood that you have mechanical keys. These keys are made of metal with a head that is inserted into 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 key, it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost well under $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popular. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of having to insert the keys into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this however they cost more than traditional keys.

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

If you are having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. Having this part replaced is likely to cost more than the average key replacement however the assurance with knowing your vehicle is secure makes it worth the investment.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help to release the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged over time from frequent use. It is important to remember that this approach isn't always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has an old-fashioned key, you can expect to spend less money to replace it. 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 in order to work with your car.

Transponder chips are typically included in the keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key can be used to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send a new signal each time they are used. This means that if anyone steals 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 insert them into the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured after the 90s, as they're a simple method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and give you additional convenience.

If you have a key fob that needs replacing, be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealerships charge a fee for programming the new key fob, but you can save money by following your owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car ignition switch repair key might seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, ignition key replacement cost but it is actually a unique key that folds up into a fob. This type of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or even online, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your key and transmit signals when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer within the car will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are present in the majority of modern vehicles and transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that do not have an integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some keys also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This prevents thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the last two decades, it's likely that it is equipped with a transponder. They transmit a number when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps to prevent the theft of your vehicle. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine will start when the code is found to match. If you don't have a transponder key that works it will be impossible to start your vehicle.

It is important to know that car dealers will charge you a fee if you want to get a new transponder. They are usually the only ones in town who can cut the specific type of key your car requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology can help prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring ineffective.

If you own a transponder key you might notice that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are starting to wear out. The grooves on the lock move the pins into a position that allows your car can start. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing issues like this, it's time to call a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. Instead of a traditional key, this one has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you do standard tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at just the push of a button. Despite their convenience, these keys come at more expensive than traditional or transponder keys because of their integrated technology.

To function, these smart keys have 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 doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far from your vehicle, an individual could pick up the low frequency signal and begin your car by placing it in an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to reduce this risk.

The model of vehicle you drive and the model year can impact the cost of replacement keys. In general, older cars have lower keys to replace than the latest models. Additionally, certain models might require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about much your replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths can provide an alternative at a lower price and often offer better service than the dealership.