How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car key is a huge hassle. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Costs differ based on the type. Certain kinds of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available including mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed prior to the 1990s there is a good likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These keys come with a metal head that is inserted into the ignition key replacement, and then turned to start the car. They are easy to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional lock, it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of having to insert the key into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a regular key.

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.

If you've had trouble with your car starting it may be the result of a faulty ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard one, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be placed into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can assist in releasing the lock wafers that might have been slightly damaged due to frequent usage. However, it is important to remember that this approach isn't always successful and can sometimes cause more damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for a replacement key if your car has traditional keys. These keys have a metal shaft that's inserted in the ignition and turned to start the vehicle. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to function with your car.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might have a transponder chip in it to in preventing theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures that only a genuine and functioning key is used to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they're used. This ensures that even if a person manages to get the key and enter your car, it won't in a position to start.

Key fobs are essentially remote controls that allow 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. These are also more common in cars manufactured after the '90s, as they're an easy way to make your car more secure from theft and to give you additional convenience.

If you have keys that need replacement, be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealerships will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for the exact sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when it is not in use. This type of key can be available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or even online however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your key and transmit an alert when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips are embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip if lost or damaged.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with an integrated chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, so when the key fob isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the shank and blade. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys can include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorized use when they are inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and immobilizer of the vehicle. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder to open, and also makes it harder for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be used on cars made in the past 20 years. The chip in keys can help prevent theft by sending an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine when it matches. Without a functioning transponder key you won't be able to start your car key ignition replacement near me.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key you must be aware that the dealership selling your car ignition replacement near me will charge you a premium for the service. They are often the only one who can cut the specific type of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves started using a method known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip into their key fobs. These can communicate with your car's engine to 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 metallic portion of your key are starting to wear out. The grooves inside the lock move the pins to a point where your car can start. 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 ignition. If you're experiencing any of these issues it's time to contact a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has a computer chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at the press of the button. Despite their convenience, these keys come at more expensive than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.

To work the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. They activate when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

However, smart keys can also be a safety risk. If you're too far away from your vehicle there's a chance that someone can take the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by simply placing it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to minimize the risk.

The type of vehicle you drive and the model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Some models also require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob in order to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower price and usually provide better service than the dealership.