Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Ignition Key Replacement…

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key is usually obtained by making an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith.

Costs differ based on the kind of key. Certain types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys that are available including mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's an excellent chance that you have a classic mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the car. They are simple 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 will cost well under $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control instead of having to insert the keys into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so although they will cost a bit more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle to ensure that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've experienced problems with your car ignition switch replacement starting it may be due to an issue with the ignition switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a typical key replacement however the security that comes from knowing that your car is safe is worth the cost.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or unable to be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which may have become slightly damaged over time due to frequent use. However, it's important to keep in mind that this approach isn't always effective and may cause more damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for a replacement key if you have a traditional key. They are made of metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to begin it. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming to work with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are often found in the keys of modern automobiles to help in preventing theft. The chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and able to start your engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send every time they are used. This ensures that if someone steals the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your car without having to insert them into the ignition. These are also more common in cars built after the '90s, as they're a simple way to make your car more safe from theft and give you additional convenience.

You'll have to pay more if you need to replace a keyfob because it requires additional programming. Most dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob but you can save money by following the owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a unique key that folds up into a fob. This kind of key can be purchased from a locksmith, auto ignition key replacement dealer or even online but the cost will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and will send an alert when they are within reach. The car's computer, or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are present in many modern vehicles. They transmit an unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as 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 the manufacturer.

A key fob with 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. Some of these keys may also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that prevent unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This deters thieves from trying to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the past two decades, it's likely it has a transponder key. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps to prevent the theft of your vehicle. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine starts if the code matches. You won't be able to start your car without a transponder key.

If you're thinking of purchasing an updated transponder key, you should know that the car dealership will charge you a fee for the service. This is because they're usually the only place that can produce the specific kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for less than the cost.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology stops car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is because the grooves move tiny pins within the lock into a position that allows your car to begin. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're having these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to change your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform standard tasks like unlocking the door and trunk and starting the engine with just the push of one button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

To function the smart keys work, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the interior electronics which recognize it as a valid smart key. When the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and begins its engine.

Smart keys could be a security risk. If you're not far from your vehicle it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal and begin your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The model of vehicle you drive and its model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. In general, older vehicles have lower replacement keys than newer models. Some models may also require a keyless system that is integrated with the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're worried about how much your replacement will cost contact an area Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to going to the dealership. Our locksmiths can offer an alternative at a lower price and can often provide better service than the dealership.