How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key can usually be obtained by making an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith.
Costs differ based on the type. Certain keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available: mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
If your car was built before the 1990s There is a good chance that you still have a mechanical key. These keys are made of metal with a head which is inserted into the ignition and turned to start the car. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't contain 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 became popular in the '90s and are designed to operate from a distance using remote controls, rather than being placed into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so although they will cost a little more than traditional keys.
Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.
If you have difficulties starting your car it could be due to a faulty switch. The replacement of this component will probably cost more than a standard key replacement, but the security that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe is worth the expense.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or isn't able to be placed in, try gently jiggling the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged over time due to frequent use. However, it is important to keep in mind that this approach isn't always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.
Remote Key
It is possible to spend less on a replacement key if your car has traditional keys. They are made of metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned 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 more modern car, your key could 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 working and valid key is used to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This ensures that if someone takes the key away the car won't be able to start.
Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. G28 Car Keys are also more prevalent in cars built after the '90s, as they're a simple way to make your car more secure from theft and give you additional convenience.
You'll need to pay more if you need to replace a keyfob because it requires additional programming. Most dealerships will charge the cost of programming the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to a specific sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50 to $100.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounded like a bladed weapon for self-defense in parking lots however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not being used. This kind of key can be bought at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer or even online, but the cost will be more than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of the key and send an alert to your vehicle when it is within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will detect the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost.
Traditional keys can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that has a chip built into it can cost as high as $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.
A key fob that incorporates an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally certain types of keys may include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will stop thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder to open, and it will also make it harder for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely to be used on cars built in the past 20 years. The chip in these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by your car's computer and the engine will start if the code matches. You will not be able to start your car without the transponder key.
It is important to know that car dealers will charge you a fee when you're looking to purchase an updated transponder. They are usually the only ones in town who can cut the specific type of key that your car requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost.
Transponder keys are an important security measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology can help prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring obsolete.
You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. The grooves inside the lock are able to move the pins to a position where your car is able to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to repair your keys.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys bring technology to the next level. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has an electronic chip that communicates with your car, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at the click of one button. Although they are convenient however, these keys are more expensive than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.
The smart keys function by using they have LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the inside electronics that recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.
Smart keys can pose a safety risk. If you're not far from your car there's a chance that someone can detect the low-frequency signal, and then start your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10 centimeters to limit this risk.
The model year and type of vehicle you use can influence the cost of replacing a key. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Additionally, certain models might require keys that are connected to the fob in order to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're anxious about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at a lower price and often offer better service than the dealership.