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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys is a huge hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the 1990s there is a good chance that you still have a mechanical key. These keys are made of metal with a head that can be placed in the ignition and then turned to start the vehicle. These keys are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic keys An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for a cost of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you have trouble starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. This part will cost more than a standard key but it is worth the investment to ensure that your car is safe.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or cannot be inserted by gently turning the key. This can help free the lock wafers, which could have been damaged over time due to frequent use. However, it's important to remember that this approach isn't always successful and can sometimes cause more damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to pay less for an alternative key if your vehicle has traditional keys. These keys feature a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to turn it on to start it. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to work with your car.

Transponder chips are commonly found in keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is used and is able to turn on your engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they're used so that even if a person manages to get the key and enter your vehicle, it won't be capable of starting.

Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without having to insert them into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built after the '90s, as they're an easy way to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you added convenience.

If you own a key fob that needs replacement be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealerships charge a fee for programming a new key fob, however, you can save money by following your owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's an armed weapon with blades for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not being used. This kind of key is available at a locksmith, auto locksmith ignition replacement dealer, or even online but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your key and send a signal when they are within reach. The car's computer or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are embedded in many modern vehicles. They transmit an unique code that only your car can read. Professional car locksmiths are able to modify your key and chip in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in could cost up to $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob with a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, including the cost of a new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, so if the key itself isn't damaged, you can replace the blade and shank. Some keys also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and will make it more difficult for them copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were made in the last 20 years. The chip inside these keys helps prevent 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, and the engine starts when the code matches. You will not be able to start your car without the transponder key.

If you're considering buying an updated transponder key, you must be aware that the dealership for your car will charge you a premium for the service. They are usually the only ones in town that can create the exact type of key your car requires. A locksmith, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip is able to communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

If you own a transponder key you may observe that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are starting to wear down. This is because the grooves move tiny pins within the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. You'll also notice that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these problems, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to repair your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. This fob instead of a standard key, contains an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors, and activating the car with a press of a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.

To function the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle that activate when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the inside electronics that recognize the smart key as valid. When the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys could present a risk to safety. If you're far from your car it is possible for someone to detect 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 10 centimeters to limit this risk.

The kind of car you drive and the model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. As a general rule older cars tend to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Some models may also require an electronic keypad that's connected to the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower cost and often offer superior service than the dealership.