9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys is a huge hassle. A replacement key is usually made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.

Costs vary depending on the type. Certain car keys are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that are available including mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the 1990s there is a good likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These keys are simple and have a metal head that is inserted in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and cost well under $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control rather than having to insert the keys into the ignition lock repair services. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to accomplish this although they will cost more than a traditional key.

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

If you've experienced problems with your car starting it may be the result of a faulty ignition switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe makes it worth the cost.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be inserted, try gently jiggling the key. This can help release the lock wafers that might have been damaged from frequent use. However, it's important to keep in mind that this method isn't always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to spend less on the replacement key if your vehicle has an old-fashioned key. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start the vehicle. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to work with your car.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key can be inserted to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used so that even if someone does manage to steal the key and open your vehicle, it won't be able to start.

Key fobs are essentially remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. These are more common on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your vehicle from theft, and also give you more convenience.

If you own an old key fob that requires replacement you should be prepared to spend more for it because they require additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$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 unique key that folds up into a fob. This kind of key can be purchased 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 manage 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 newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.

Simple, inexpensive fobs without an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob with a chip in could cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade can cost between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some of these keys may also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which stop unauthorized use when they are placed in the ignition and key replacement cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This deters thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were built in the past 20 years. The chip on these keys prevents vehicle theft by sending the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by the computer in your car ignition replacement, and the engine will start if the code matches. Without a functioning transponder key you won't be able to start your car.

If you're thinking of purchasing an updated transponder key, you need to know that the car dealership will charge you a premium for the service. They are usually the only people in town who can cut the specific type of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s when car thieves started using a technique known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology helps prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring useless.

You may be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a position that allows your car 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 vehicle. If you're experiencing issues like this it's time to contact a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. The key instead of an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as starting the car with the press of a button. Although they are convenient they are an additional cost than transponder keys or traditional keys because of the integrated technology.

The smart keys function by having the LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the inside electronics which recognize it as a valid smart key. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys can present a risk to safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far from your vehicle, someone could be able to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by putting it in a compatible ignition. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The type of vehicle you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. As a rule older cars tend to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Also, some models may require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost contact the local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.