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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys could be a major headache. A replacement key is typically obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.

Costs vary depending on the type. Certain car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob as well as transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is the possibility that you own a traditional mechanical key if the car ignition switch replacement was built prior to the '90s. These keys are simple and come with a metal head that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the car. They are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and cost less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control rather than having to insert the keys into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools for doing so, although they do cost more than traditional keys.

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

If you've had trouble with your car starting, it could be due to an ignition switch that is not working properly. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than a standard key replacement, but the assurance from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the expense.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be placed into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which may have become slightly damaged over time due to frequent use. This method isn't always successful and may result in further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to pay less for a replacement key if your car has an old-fashioned key. The keys are made of metal shaft that's inserted in 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 need any special programming to function with your vehicle.

If you're driving a brand newer car, your key could contain a transponder chip inside it to help to prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures that only a valid and Ignition Key Replacement Cost working key can be inserted to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that even if someone is able to steal the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without having to insert them into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built after the '90s, as they're a convenient way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacement, be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealerships will charge the cost of programming the new one, Ignition Key Replacement Cost but you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to the exact sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded like an armed weapon with blades for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not being used. This type of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or on the internet but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your key and send a signal when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer within the car will be able to recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read-code. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. These are usually available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets ranging between $25 and $100. The cost of a new key fob with an integrated 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 and $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally, some of these types of keys come with a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which make it impossible for unauthorized use to be inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will prevent thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder, and it will also make it difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the past two decades, chances are it has a transponder key. They transmit a number when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine if it matches. Without a working transponder key it will be impossible to start your vehicle.

You should be aware that a car dealer will charge a premium when you're looking to purchase a new transponder. This is because they're often the only one in town that can produce the specific type of key your car needs. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key at a only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology prevents car theft because it makes hot-wiring obsolete.

You may be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves in the lock allow the pins to move to a position where your car can begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're having these issues, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to repair your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and starting the engine with the click of the button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

To work, these smart keys have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that recognize the smart key as valid. Once the smart key has been recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and begins its engine.

However, smart keys could also pose a security risk. If you're not far from your car it is possible for someone to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce this risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of replacing a key. In general, older vehicles have cheaper keys to replace than the latest models. Additionally, certain models might require an entry system that's keyless and integrated with the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement for a lower cost and offer better service than a dealership.