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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Based on the type of key, costs differ based on the type of key. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys available that include mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s, there is a high likelihood that you have an electronic key. These basic keys are made of steel with a head which is put 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 lock, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto ignition key replacement locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a regular key.

Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've had trouble getting your car to start, it could be a sign of an issue with the ignition switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a typical key replacement however the security that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe is worth the cost.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This can assist in releasing the lock wafers that may have been damaged due to frequent usage. However, it's important to keep in mind that this approach isn't always effective and may cause more damage.

Remote Key

You'll pay less for an alternative key if your car ignition switch replacement has an old-fashioned key. They have a key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't require any special programming to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to help to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key can be inserted to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they're used so that even if a person manages to steal the key and open your car, it won't be in a position to start.

Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your car without the need to insert them into the ignition. They are more prevalent for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to protect your vehicle from theft and provide you more convenience.

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

Switchblade Key

The car key with a switchblade may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds down into the fob. This type of key is available from locksmiths, an auto ignition key replacement dealer, or on the internet however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of the key and send a signal to your fix car ignition when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are incorporated into most modern vehicles and transmit an unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your chip and key if lost or damaged.

Traditional keys can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip in could cost up to $500, depending on features and the manufacturer.

A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, meaning that if the key fob itself 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 have resistors that prevent unauthorized use when placed in the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the car. This prevents thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the last two decades, it's likely it has a transponder key. 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 starts when the code is found to match. Without a working transponder key, you won't be able to start your vehicle.

If you're considering buying an updated transponder key, you should know that the car dealership will charge you a fee for the service. They are usually the only ones in town who can cut the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves move little 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 does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're experiencing these problems you should contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. The key instead of being a standard key, contains an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors and opening the car with the pressing of a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due the integrated technology.

To function, these smart keys have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. They activate when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and starts its engine.

Smart keys could present a risk to safety. If you're not far from your vehicle it is possible for someone to intercept the low-frequency signal and begin your car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to minimize the risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you drive can also influence the cost of a replacement key. As a rule older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Additionally, certain models might require keys that are integrated with the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths can provide an alternative at a lower cost and usually provide superior service than the dealership.