How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car key is a huge hassle. A replacement key is usually found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Costs differ based on the type. Certain kinds of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.
Mechanical Key
If your car was constructed before the year 1990 There is a good likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These keys have a metal head that is inserted in the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These keys are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic key An auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for less than $50.
Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance using remote controls, rather than being put into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so, although they do cost more than traditional keys.
Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the right key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.
If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. Replacing this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement however the assurance from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the expense.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or cannot be inserted Try gently jiggling the key. This will help release the lock wafers that might be a little damaged from frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may cause further damage.
Remote Key
You can expect to spend less on a replacement key if your vehicle has traditional keys. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to turn the engine. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to function with your car.
Transponder chips are commonly included in the keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. The chips transmit signals from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is used and is able to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit an updated signal each time they are used. This ensures that even if someone takes the key away and your car doesn't start.
Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock, and open your car without the need to insert them into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in vehicles made after the '90s, as they're a convenient way to make your car more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.
You will have to pay more when you have to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. Most dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob but you can save some money by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The car key with a switchblade may appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds up into a fob. This kind of key is available from an auto dealer, or even online however it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs control the functions of your key and transmit signals when they are within range. The car's computer or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional car locksmiths are able to change the chip and key when they become 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 and other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that has a chip built in could cost up to $500, depending on features and manufacturer.
A key fob equipped with a switchblade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and programming. The parts can typically be bought separately, so when the key fob isn't harmed you can just replace the shank and blade. Some of these keys may also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent unauthorized use when placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This stops thieves from attempting to force your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. The chip on these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The car's computer checks the code and starts the engine when it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works it will be impossible to start your car.
Be aware that a car dealership will charge a premium for you to purchase an updated transponder. They are usually the only people in town who can cut the exact type of key your car requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at a fraction of the price.
Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective.
If you own a transponder key you may be noticing that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear down. This is due to the grooves moving little pins inside the lock into a position that allows your car to start up. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If car ignition switch having these issues you should contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.
Smart Key
A smart key takes technology one step further. Instead of a traditional key, this one has a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you do standard tasks such as opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine at just the push of a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.
They 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. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.
However, smart keys can also pose a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your car someone could intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by putting it into an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.
The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can influence the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule older cars tend to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Additionally, certain models might require keys that are integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're anxious about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide an upgrade at a lower cost and can often provide superior service than the dealership.