How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a major hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.

Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Some car keys are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car ignition barrel replacement near me was manufactured before the year 1990 there is a good chance that you still have mechanical keys. These keys have a metal head that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to copy and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic key an auto locksmith could easily cut the key and program it for a cost of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of having to insert the keys into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with a microchip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer, ensuring that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you are having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. This component will cost more than a standard key but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or can't be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This can help release the lock wafers which may have been damaged from frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has an old-fashioned key and lock, you'll pay less for replacing it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to turn it on to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a brand newer car, your key could include a transponder chip within it to prevent theft. The chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is used and able to start your engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This ensures that if anyone steals the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your car without having to insert them into the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured after the 90s, as they're an easy method to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you additional convenience.

If you have a key fob that needs replacing be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming the new key fob, however, you can save money by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded like the bladed weapon used to defend yourself in the parking lot, but this is just 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 online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the key's functions and transmit an alert to your vehicle when it is within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will detect the signal, and allow the engine start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths can change the chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that do not have an integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features offered by.

A key fob equipped with an adjustable blade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and the programming. The parts can typically be purchased separately, meaning that when the key fob isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. Certain keys might also come with 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 immobilizer of the car. This prevents thieves from attempting to force your ignition cylinder and makes it 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 keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps to prevent the theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine if it matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle without a transponder key.

If you're thinking of purchasing an updated transponder key, you need to know that the car dealership will charge you a premium 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 less than the cost.

Transponder keys are an important security 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 start it. This technology prevents car theft as it renders hot-wiring useless.

You may be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves on 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 your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are experiencing these issues you should call an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. Instead of a traditional key, this type of key has an electronic chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine with the click of one button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the integrated technology.

The smart keys function by using LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far from your car someone could intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by inserting it into an ignition and key replacement compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive can influence the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule older cars tend to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that's connected to the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost you can call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at less money and provide better service than a dealership.