How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Costs differ based on the type. Certain car keys 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

There's a good chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if your car was built prior to the '90s. These basic keys are made of steel with a head that is inserted into the ignition and turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with a remote controller instead of being placed into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than a standard key.

Transponder keys, which were 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 are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've had trouble with your car starting, it could be due to an issue with the ignition switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a standard key replacement, but the assurance from knowing that your car is safe makes it worth the cost.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or cannot be placed in, try gently jiggling the key. This can assist in releasing the lock wafers that might have been slightly damaged from frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may result in further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has traditional keys that is a traditional key, you will pay less to replace it. The keys are made of metal key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, ignition key replacement cost and don't require any special programming to function with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer car, your key could contain a transponder chip inside it to in preventing theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key is used to start the engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which send a different signal every time they're used. This ensures that even if a person manages to take the key and then open your car, it won't be able to start.

Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock and even open your car without the need to insert it into the mobile ignition lock repair services. These are more common on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great way to secure your car from theft, and also give you more convenience.

You will have to pay more if you have to replace a keyfob as it requires additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob, however, you can save money by following the owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob will cost between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key can be available from an auto dealer, or on the internet, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and ignition key Replacement cost transmit a signal when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will be able to recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob that incorporates an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the price of a new battery and 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. In addition certain types of keys can include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which prevent unauthorized use when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This prevents thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were made in the past 20 years. They transmit a number when they are inserted into the ignition. This can help prevent vehicle theft. The car's computer examines the code and then starts the engine when it matches. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle if you don't have an transponder key.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key you need to know that the car dealership will charge you a premium for the service. They are often the only one who can make the exact type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, as car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and then start it. This technology prevents car theft because it makes hot-wiring ineffective.

If you have a transponder key, you may observe that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins inside the lock into a position that allows your car to begin. You will also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you are experiencing these problems, it is time to call an auto locksmith to repair your keys.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology a step further. Instead of a traditional key, this type of key has an electronic chip that communicates with your car, allowing you do standard tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine with the click of one button. Despite their convenience, these keys come at a higher price than transponder keys or traditional keys because of the integrated technology.

To work the smart keys, they are equipped with the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior, which identify it as a valid smart key. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

Smart keys can pose a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far from your vehicle, someone could intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by inserting it in a compatible ignition. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The kind of car you drive and the model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. In general, older cars have lower replacement keys than modern models. Some models also require an entry system that's keyless and integrated with the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower cost and can often provide better service than the dealership.