How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. A replacement key can usually be obtained by making an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith.
Based on the type of key, prices vary. Certain types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.
Mechanical Key
If your car was built before the 1990s, there is a high chance that you still have mechanical keys. These basic keys are made of steel with a head that is put into the ignition and 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 can easily cut it and program it at the price of less than $50.
Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance using an electronic remote, rather than being inserted into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to accomplish this however they cost more than traditional keys.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer and ensures that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to have cut and programmed.
If you're having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. This part will cost you more than a standard key but it is worth the investment to ensure that your car is safe.
If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be placed in by gently turning the key. This will help release the lock wafers which may have been slightly damaged from frequent use. However, it's important to remember that this method isn't always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with a traditional key that is a traditional key, you will spend less money to replace it. These keys have a metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special programming to function with your vehicle.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to help in preventing theft. These chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and able to start your engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send every time they are used. This means that if someone is able to steal the key, your car won't start.
Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle 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 give you more convenience.
If you have keys that need replacing, be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. Most dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob however, you can save money by following your owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade car key might appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a unique key that folds into the fob. This type of key can be available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or on the internet however it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the key's functions and transmit a signal to your car when it is within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will be able to recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost.
Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 and $100. The cost of a new key fob with a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features included.
A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Certain keys might also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use when they are inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the vehicle. This will stop thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder to open, and will make it difficult for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys can be used on cars made in the past 20 years. These keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps to prevent theft of your vehicle. The code is verified by the computer in your car, and the engine starts if the code matches. Without a functioning transponder key it will be impossible to start your vehicle.
If you're thinking about getting a new 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 make the specific type of key 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 safety measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 1980s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car and start it. This technology can help prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring obsolete.
If you have transponder keys, you may notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear down. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these problems you should contact an auto locksmith to change your keys.
Smart Key
Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. This fob, instead of using the standard key, has an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and doors and opening the car with the press of a button. Despite auto locksmith ignition replacement of use however, these keys are a higher price than transponder keys or traditional keys due to their integrated technology.
To work, these smart keys have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle that activate when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics which determine that the smart key is valid. Once recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.
However, smart keys could also pose a risk to your safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far from your vehicle, an individual could pick up the low-frequency signal and start your car by inserting it into an ignition that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.
The model of car you drive and the model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general, older cars have lower replacement keys than newer models. Certain models may require a keyless system that is connected to the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able offer a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.