• 목록
• 답변
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a huge hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Based on the type of key, costs vary. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is placed in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to be operated by remote controls, rather than being placed into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle, ensuring that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've had trouble getting your car to start it might be due to a faulty ignition switch. This component will cost more than a standard key, but it is worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be put in by gently turning the key. This could help to release the lock wafers that could have been damaged over time from frequent use. However, it's important to keep in mind that this is not always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key that is a traditional key, you will spend less money to replace it. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to turn it on to start it. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming to work with your car.

If you're driving a more modern car, your key could have a transponder chip in it to help in preventing theft. These chips work by sending a signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and able to start your engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which send an entirely different signal each time they're used, so that even if someone does manage to take the key and then open your car, it won't be in a position to start.

Key fobs are essentially remote controls that allow you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as as set off the alarm or open the trunk without having to physically insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars manufactured after the '90s, as they're a convenient way to make your car more safe from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

If you own a key fob that needs replacement, be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealerships will charge a fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe a specific sequence of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 and $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a unique key that folds 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 are electronic devices that manage the key's functions and transmit a signal to your car ignition replacement when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will recognize the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are embedded in the majority of modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that do not have an integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob with an integrated chip can range from $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob with a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys come with a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will prevent thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder to open, and will make it harder for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the last two decades, chances are it uses a transponder key. The chip on these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by the computer in your car, and the engine starts if the code matches. Without a functioning transponder key, you won't be able to start your car.

If you're thinking of purchasing a new transponder key, you must be aware that the dealership for your car will charge you a fee for the service. They are usually the only people in town who can cut the specific type of key that your car requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at less than the cost.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 1980s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to combat this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology helps prevent fix car ignition theft as it renders hot-wiring obsolete.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues it's time to contact a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. Instead of using a standard key, this one has an electronic chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like opening the trunk and door and starting the engine with the press of the button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the technology integrated.

These smart keys work through the LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics that recognize the smart key as valid. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

Smart keys can present a risk to safety. If you're not far from your car, someone could detect the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to reduce this risk.

The kind of vehicle you drive and the model year can impact the cost of replacement keys. As a general rule, older models tend to have lower key replacements than newer ones. Some models may also require a keyless system that is connected to the fob to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're anxious about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower cost and often offer better service than the dealership.