How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Depending on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Some types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s, there is a high chance that you still have a mechanical key. These keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted in the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. They are easy to duplicate and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic key An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for a cost of less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are designed to operate by an electronic remote, rather than being put into the ignition key replacement cost. These are easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the regular 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 difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.

If you've experienced problems getting your car to start it may be a sign of an issue with the ignition switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement, but the assurance from knowing that your vehicle is safe makes it worth the cost.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or can't be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can assist in releasing the lock wafers which may be a little damaged from frequent use. It is important to keep in mind that this approach isn't always successful and may cause more damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to pay less for a replacement key if your car has a traditional key. These keys have a metal key shaft that is inserted into the ignition lock repair services, and then turned to start your vehicle. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't require any special software to work with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are typically found in the keys of modern automobiles to help in preventing theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures that only a valid and working key can be used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that if someone steals the key, your car won't start.

Key fobs are basically an electronic remote control that lets you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk without having to insert it into the ignition. These are more common on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your vehicle from theft, and also give you more convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacing you should be prepared to spend more because they require extra programming. Most dealerships will charge the cost of programming the new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in the owner's manual to a specific sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's a bladed weapon for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when it is not in use. This type of key can be bought at a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet however the price will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the key's functions and transmit signals to your car when it is within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional locksmiths can change the chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, based on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob that has an adjustable blade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and programming. If the key fob is not damaged you can replace the blade or shank. In addition certain types of keys may 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 to the immobilizer of the car. This deters thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the last two decades, it's likely it has a transponder key. The chip on these keys prevents 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 is found to match. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle if you don't have a transponder key.

If you're thinking about getting an updated transponder key, you need to know that the dealership for your car will charge you a fee for the service. They are often the only ones in town who can cut the specific type of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at less than the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 1980s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip is able to communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology prevents car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves inside the lock move the pins into a position that allows your car can 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 any of these issues you should contact an expert auto locksmith to repair your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Instead of a traditional key, this type of key has a computer chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and starting the engine with just the push of the button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.

To work the smart keys work, they have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. These antennas are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior, which identify it as an authentic smart key. Once the car ignition key replacement is identified, it stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're not far from your car, someone could intercept the low-frequency signal and begin your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to reduce this risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of replacing a key. In general older cars tend to have lower key replacements than newer ones. Additionally, certain models might require keys that are connected to the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about how the replacement will cost contact the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement for less money and provide better service than dealerships.