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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key is typically made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Depending on the kind of key, prices vary. Certain kinds of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available that include mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's a good chance that you have a classic mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These basic keys are made of steel with a head which is put into the ignition, then turned to start the vehicle. They are easy to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost you less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to operate by an electronic remote instead of being inserted into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the standard key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've had trouble with your car starting it might be the result of an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard key however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your car is secure.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This can help free the lock wafers, which could have been damaged over time from frequent use. It is important to note that this approach isn't always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has a traditional key, you can expect to pay less to replace it. They are made of metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to turn it on to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't need any special software to work with your car.

Transponder chips are often found in keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. The chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a device in the van ignition repair to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and is able to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if someone manages to take the key and then open your car, it won't capable of starting.

Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without having to insert them into the ignition. They are more popular for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your vehicle from theft, and also give you more convenience.

You will have to pay more for need to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. Most dealerships charge a fee to program a new key fob but you can save some cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when it is not in use. This kind of key can be bought at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer, or even online but the cost will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of the key and send signals to your car when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and provide a unique, only-your-fix car ignition read-code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key if lost or damaged.

Simple, low-cost fobs that do not 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 and $100. A replacement key fob with a chip in can cost up to $500, based on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, not including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that if the key fob itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the shank and blade. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys can include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will prevent thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder to open, and will make it more difficult for them duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on cars made in the past 20 years. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This can help prevent vehicle theft. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine will start if the code matches. You will not be able to start your car without an transponder key.

Be aware that a car dealership will charge you a fee if you want to get a new transponder. They are often the only people in town that can create the specific type of key your car ignition switch repair requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, when car ignition barrel replacement near me thieves began using a technique called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to combat this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology prevents car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

If you own transponder keys, you may notice that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are starting to wear down. The grooves on the lock are able to move the pins to a point where your car can 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 car. If you're experiencing any of these issues it's time to contact a professional auto locksmith to repair your key.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. The key, instead of using the standard key, has a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors and opening the car with the pressing of a button. Despite their convenience however, these keys are a higher price than transponder keys or traditional keys because of the integrated technology.

These smart keys work by having LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the interior electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

However, smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. If you're too far away from your car it is possible for someone to take the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of a replacement key. In general older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than the newer models. Some models may also require a keyless system that is connected to the fob in order to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're anxious about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.