How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Costs vary depending on the type. Certain car ignition locked 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 the possibility that you have a classic mechanical key if your car was built prior to the ’90s. These keys are made of metal with a head that is put into the ignition and then turned to start the vehicle. They are simple to duplicate and don’t contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic keys an auto locksmith could easily cut the key and program it for a cost of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popular. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of having to insert the keys into the ignition cylinder replacement near me. They are simpler to duplicate, and don’t require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.

If you’ve had trouble when your car starts, it could be due to an ignition switch that is not working properly. This component will cost more than a standard key but it’s a worthwhile investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can’t be placed into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can help free the lock wafers that could have been damaged over time from frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

You’ll spend less on an alternative key if your vehicle has traditional keys. The keys are made of metal key shaft that’s inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the vehicle. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to function with your vehicle.

If you’re driving a more modern car, your key could have a transponder chip in it to help to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key can be inserted to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send every time they are used. This means that even if someone steals the key, your car won’t start.

Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without having to insert them into the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured in the 1990s, since they’re an easy way to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you additional convenience.

You’ll have to pay more for need to replace a keyfob as it requires additional programming. Most dealerships will charge a fee to program the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in the owner’s manual to a specific sequence of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The car key with a switchblade may seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it’s actually a novel key that folds up into the fob. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or online, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and send signals when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will detect the signal, and allow the engine start. Transponder chips are embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths can modify your key and chip when 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 ranging between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with 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 a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of new batteries and the programming. If the key fob isn’t damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally certain types of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car’s computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. 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 ignition switch was built in the last two decades, it’s likely that it has a transponder key. The chip in these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by the computer in your car, and the engine will start when the code is found to match. Without a functioning transponder key it will be impossible to start your vehicle.

You should be aware that a car dealership will charge a higher price for you to purchase a new transponder. This is because they’re usually the only one in town that can produce the specific kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves started using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car to start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring useless.

You may be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves in the lock are able to move the pins to a position where your car can begin. You’ll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car isn’t visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are experiencing these issues you should contact an auto locksmith in order to replace your keys.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology a step further. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at the press of the button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

To work the smart keys, they are equipped with the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. They are activated when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the interior electronics which recognize the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. If you’re not far from your vehicle there’s a chance that someone can take the low-frequency signal and start your car by simply putting it in an van ignition repair slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to reduce the risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive can affect the cost of a replacement key. As a rule, older models tend to have cheaper key replacements than the newer models. Some models might also require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you’re concerned about much your replacement will cost, call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer. Our locksmiths can provide an alternative at a lower price and can often provide better service than the dealership.