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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

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

Based on the type of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Some car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is the possibility that you have a classic mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys are made of metal with a head which is put into the ignition and then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic keys, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for the price of less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the '90s and are designed to operate by a remote controller instead of being put into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so, although they do cost more than a traditional 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 will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've experienced problems when your car starts, it could be a sign of a faulty ignition switch. Replacing this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement, but the security that comes with knowing your vehicle is secure makes it worth the expense.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be put into the ignition, gently move the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which could have been damaged over time due to frequent use. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with traditional keys, 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 turn it on to start it. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to function with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to in preventing theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key can be inserted to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit every time they are used. This ensures that if anyone takes the key away and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are basically an electronic remote control that lets you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk without the need to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built in the 1990s, since they're an easy way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to give you additional convenience.

You'll have to pay more if you have to replace a keyfob as it requires additional programming. Most dealerships will charge an additional fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to specific sequences of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key might sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually an innovative key that folds into the fob. This kind of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or on the internet, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of keys and send signals to your car when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will be able to recognize the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are present in most modern vehicles and transmit an unique code that only your car can read. Professional car locksmiths are able to reprogram your chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that has a chip built in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and programming. If the key fob is not damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally certain types of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorized use when they are they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This will prevent thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder, and also makes it difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be found on vehicles built in the last 20 years. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The car's computer is able to check the code and start the engine if it matches. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle without the transponder key.

If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key, you should know that the dealership for your car will charge you a fee for the service. They are often the only one who can make the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs. These can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology can help prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring obsolete.

You might notice that the grooves of your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to start up. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the fix ignition switch. If you're experiencing issues like this you should contact an expert auto locksmith to change your key.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. Rather than using a regular key, this type of key has a computer chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at the click of one button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.

To function the smart keys, they are equipped with the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle that activate when you turn a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior, which identify it as a valid smart key. Once it is recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.

However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. If you're far from your car there's a chance that someone can detect the low-frequency signal and start your car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The model of car you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older cars have lower replacement keys than newer models. Also, some models may require keys that are connected to the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're anxious about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.