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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys is a huge hassle. A replacement key can usually be found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Costs differ based on the kind of key. Certain types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the 1990s There is a good likelihood that you have mechanical keys. These simple keys come with a metal head that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. These are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic lock an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it for less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to operate by a remote controller, rather than being inserted into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a regular key.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the right key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.

If you're having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than a standard key replacement however the assurance from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the investment.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or isn't able to be placed in Try gently jiggling the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which may have become slightly damaged over time from frequent use. This method is not always successful and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to pay less for an alternative key if your vehicle has a traditional key. These keys feature a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to start it. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to work with your car.

Transponder chips are typically found in the keys of modern automobiles to help 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 can be used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send a new signal each time they are used. This means that even if someone is able to steal the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as as set off the alarm or open the trunk without having to physically insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in vehicles made in the 1990s, since they're a convenient way to make your car more secure from theft and give you added convenience.

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

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds up into a fob. This type of key is available from an auto dealer, or even online, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs regulate the functions of your key and transmit a signal when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will recognize the signal and permit the engine to start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are embedded in most modern vehicles and transmit an unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is lost ignition key or damaged.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets ranging between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob that has a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob with the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, including the cost of a new battery and programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys come with VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. This will stop thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the past two decades, chances are it is equipped with a transponder. These keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This can help prevent vehicle theft. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. Without a working transponder key, you won't be able to start your vehicle.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key, you should know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. They are usually the only people in town that can create the specific type of key that your car requires. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key at a only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technique called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs. These can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring useless.

You might observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves in the lock allow the pins to move to a position where your car is able to start. You will also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're experiencing these issues it's time to contact a professional auto locksmith to change your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. This fob instead of the standard key, has an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as starting the car with the press of a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the technology integrated.

To work the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. They activate when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once it is recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

However, smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far from your vehicle, someone could intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by inserting it in a compatible ignition. Some manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to minimize the risk.

The model of car you drive and its model year can also affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Certain models may require a keyless system that is connected to the fob to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're worried about how much your replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able offer a replacement at less money and provide better service than dealerships.