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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Based on the kind of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys that include mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was built prior to the 1990s, there is a high chance that you still have mechanical keys. These simple keys come with a metal head that is placed in the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popular. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control rather than having to insert the keys into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. This part will cost you more than a standard one, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be placed into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can help free the lock wafers that might have gotten damaged over time from frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with a traditional key, you can expect to spend less money to replace it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to begin it. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special programming to function with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are often included in the keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and is able to turn on your engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which send a different signal every time they're used so that even if someone manages to take the key and then open your car, it won't capable of starting.

Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without the need to insert them into the ignition. They are more prevalent for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to secure your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

If you have a key fob that needs replacing you should be prepared to spend more due to the fact that they require additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming the new key fob, but you can save some cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like a bladed weapon for parking lot self-defense, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key can be bought at a locksmith, auto dealer or even online but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of keys and send signals to your car when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips are embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for $25 to $100. A replacement key fob with a chip in can cost up to $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade can cost between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent unauthorized use when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. This prevents thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the last two decades, it's likely it is equipped with a transponder. These keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This can help prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car ignition switch repair examines the code and then starts the engine when it matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle if you don't have the transponder key.

Be aware that a car dealer will charge a premium if you want to get a new transponder. This is because they're often the only shop in town who can create the kind 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 are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology prevents car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.

If you have transponder keys you might observe that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are beginning to wear down. This is because the grooves move little pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard 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 repair your key.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. The fob instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to perform standard tasks like 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 to the integrated technology.

To function the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle that activate when you turn a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics which recognize it as an authentic smart key. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and starts its engine.

However, smart keys could also pose a risk to your safety. If you're far from your vehicle, someone could take the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of a replacement key. As a general rule older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Additionally, certain models might require keys that are integrated with the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're worried about how the replacement cost will be you can call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths can offer an alternative at a lower cost and often offer superior service than the dealership.