How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys is a huge hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.
Based on the type of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain kinds of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There's the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured before the '90s. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for less than $50.
Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with remote controls instead of being put into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a standard key.
Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and generally cost more to have cut and programmed.
If you've experienced problems when your car starts it may be the result of a faulty ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard key but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be put into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help to release the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged over time due to frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with traditional keys, you can expect to pay less for replacing it. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to work with your vehicle.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle, your key may have a transponder chip in it to help to prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures only a valid and working key is used to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are called rolling keys, that send an entirely different signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if someone manages to steal the key and open your car, it won't be able to start.
Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your car without the need to put it in the ignition. They are more prevalent on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great method to secure your car from theft and provide you more convenience.
You'll need to pay more if you need to replace the keyfob since it requires extra programming. Most dealerships charge a fee to program a new key fob however, you can save money by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade car key may appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually an innovative key that folds up into a fob. This kind of key is available at a locksmith, auto dealer, or even online but the cost will be more than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of the key and send signals to your car when it is within range. The car's computer or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can modify your key and chip when they become damaged or lost.
Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets ranging between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob that has a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features offered by.
A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, including the price of a new battery and programming. If the key fob is not damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Certain keys might also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, and it will also make it difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys can be used on vehicles that were built in the past 20 years. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps to prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine when it matches. Without a functioning transponder key you won't be able to start your vehicle.
Be aware that car dealers will charge a higher price for you to purchase an updated transponder. This is because they're usually the only place that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for only a fraction of the price.
Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves started using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip is able to communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring useless.
You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're experiencing these issues it's time to contact a professional auto locksmith to change your key.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys take technology a step further. Rather than using a regular key, this one has a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you do standard tasks such as opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine with just the push of one button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.
To function, these smart keys have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. They activate when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the interior electronics which recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once it is recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.
key ignition replacement could pose a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far away from your car, someone could intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by placing it in an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.
The kind of vehicle you drive and its model year can also affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models tend to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Some models also require keys that are connected to the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at less money and provide superior service than a dealership.