How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys is a huge hassle. A replacement key is typically obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Based on the kind of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain kinds of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There is a good chance that you have a classic mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured before the '90s. These keys are made of metal with a head that is placed in the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't have any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost well under $50.
Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to operate from a distance with a remote controller instead of being placed into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However, they cost more than the normal key.
Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.
If you've experienced problems with your car starting it might be a sign of an ignition switch that is not working properly. Replacing this component will probably cost more than the average key replacement but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is secure makes it worth the cost.
If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or unable to be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could assist in releasing the lock wafers that might have been damaged due to frequent usage. However, it's important to remember that this approach isn't always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car has an old-fashioned key and lock, you'll pay less to replace it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to begin it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special programming to work with your vehicle.
If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, your key may have a transponder chip in it to to prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key can be inserted to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, that send the same signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if someone does manage to get the key and enter your car, it won't be capable of starting.
Key fobs work as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without having to insert it into the ignition. These are more common on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your car from theft, and give you more convenience.
If you have a key fob that needs replacing, be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge the cost of programming a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for specific sequences of button presses and turns to reprogram it 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 however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not in use. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or online but it's more than traditional keys.
Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and will send signals when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will detect the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.
Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in could cost up to $500, depending on features and the manufacturer.
A key fob that has an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys may include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the car. This stops thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely be used on cars made in the past 20 years. The keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps prevent the theft of your vehicle. The car's computer examines the code and then starts the engine if it matches. Without a working transponder key you won't be able to start your vehicle.
Be aware that a car dealer will charge a higher price for you to purchase a new transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only place that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price.
Transponder keys are an important security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip into their key fobs. ignition key replacement cost can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology prevents car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.
You may notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves in the lock move the pins to a position where your car is able to start. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're experiencing these issues, it's time to call an expert auto locksmith to repair your key.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys bring technology to the next level. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine with the press of the button. Despite their convenience they are an additional cost than transponder keys or traditional keys because of the integrated technology.
They function by having LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the inside electronics which recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.
But smart keys can also pose a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far from your car someone could intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by putting it in an ignition that is compatible with. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to reduce the risk.
The model year and the type of vehicle you drive can affect the cost of a replacement key. As a rule older cars tend to have cheaper key replacements than the newer models. Additionally, certain models might require keys that are connected to the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at a lower cost and can often provide superior service than the dealership.