How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys could be a major headache. A replacement key is typically obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Based on the type of key, prices vary. Certain keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There is an excellent chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the ’90s. These simple keys have a metal head that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic keys an auto locksmith could easily cut the key and program it for the price of less than $50.
Key fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are designed to be operated by a remote controller instead of being placed into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don’t require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost a bit more than traditional keys.
Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.
If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a standard key replacement however the security that comes with knowing your vehicle is secure makes it worth the investment.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This could assist in releasing the lock wafers which may have been slightly damaged from frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car has traditional keys that is a traditional key, you will pay less for replacing it. They have a key shaft that’s inserted into the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don’t require any special programming to function with your vehicle.
If you’re driving a newer car, your key could contain a transponder chip inside it to help to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key can be inserted to start the engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they’re used. This ensures that even if someone manages to take the key and then open your car, it won’t be able to start.
Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock and even open your car without having to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars manufactured in the 1990s, since they’re an easy way to make your car more safe from theft and give you added convenience.
You’ll have to pay more for need to replace the keyfob since it requires extra programming. The majority of dealers will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner’s manual that describe specific sequences of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50 to $100.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounds as if it’s a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot however, it’s actually an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when it is not in use. This kind of key is available at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer, or even online but the cost will be higher than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the functions of the key and send an alert to your vehicle when it is within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will recognize the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are present in many modern vehicles. They transmit an exclusive code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your key and chip if damaged or lost.
Traditional keys can still be substituted with cheap, simple fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets between $25 and $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.
A key fob with the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. The parts can typically be purchased separately, meaning that when the key fob isn’t damaged, it’s possible to replace the shank and blade. In addition certain types of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car’s computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and it will also make it more difficult for them duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely be found on vehicles manufactured within the last 20 years. They transmit a number when they are inserted into the ignition. This can help prevent vehicle theft. The code is verified by your car’s computer and the engine is started when the code matches. Without a working transponder key it will be impossible to start your vehicle.
If you’re considering buying a new transponder key you need to know that the dealership for your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they’re usually the only one in town that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for only 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 a small RFID chip into their key fobs. These can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective.
If you have transponder keys, you may notice that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are starting to wear down. The grooves inside the lock are able to move the pins into a position that allows your car can start. You’ll also notice that the key symbol on your car’s dashboard isn’t visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you’re experiencing any of these issues you should contact a professional auto locksmith to change your key.
Smart Key
Smart keys bring technology to the next level. The fob instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the pressing of a button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are an additional cost than transponder keys that are traditional due to their integrated technology.
To function the smart keys work, they have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. They activate when you turn the trunk or door. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics which determine that the smart key is valid. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and starts its engine.
Smart keys can present a risk to safety. If you’re too far away from your car ignition key replacement, someone could detect the low-frequency signal and begin your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.
The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you use can affect the cost of replacing a key. In general, older models tend to have cheaper key replacements than those with more modern features. Some models may also require an electronic keypad that’s integrated with the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you’re worried about how the replacement will cost contact an area Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to going to the dealership. Our locksmiths can offer an alternative at a lower cost and can often provide superior service than the dealership.
