How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys could be a major hassle. A replacement key is usually made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Depending on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Some types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available including mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
There is the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your car was built prior to the '90s. These simple keys are metal with a head that can be inserted into the ignition and turned to turn the car on. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic lock an auto locksmith could easily cut the key and program it for the price of less than $50.
Key fobs became popular in the early 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with an electronic remote, rather than being placed into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to accomplish this however they 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 correct key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.
If you've been experiencing trouble with your car starting it might be due to an issue with the ignition switch. The replacement of this component will probably cost more than a standard key replacement, but the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your vehicle is safe makes it worth the investment.
If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or can't be inserted Try gently jiggling the key. This will assist in releasing the lock wafers which may have been damaged by frequent use. However, it is important to note that this method isn't always effective and may cause further damage.
Remote Key
You'll spend less on a replacement key if you have an old-fashioned key. These keys feature a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to begin it. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming to work with your car.
If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, the key might have a transponder chip in it to prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and is able to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, that send a different signal every time they're used, so that even if someone manages to get the key and enter your car, it won't be capable of starting.
Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in cars built in the 1990s, since they're a convenient method to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you added convenience.
If you own an old key fob that requires replacement be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge a fee to program the new key fob, however you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual that describe a specific sequence of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50-$100.
Switchblade Key
The car key with a switchblade may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a unique key that folds down into a fob. This type of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or online, but it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and send an alert when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will detect the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are embedded in many modern vehicles. They transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your key and chip if damaged or lost.
Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob that has a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features included.
car key ignition repair that incorporates the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new battery and programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. In addition, some of these types of keys may include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder, and it will also make it harder for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys can be found on vehicles manufactured within the last 20 years. The chip inside keys can help prevent theft by transmitting the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. 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 car.
If you're thinking about getting an updated transponder key, you should know that the car dealership will charge you a premium for the service. They are often the only ones in town that can create the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for less than the cost.
Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip into their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.
If you have a transponder key, you may be noticing that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are starting to wear down. The grooves on the lock are able to move the pins to a position where your car can start. 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 are experiencing these issues you should contact an auto locksmith to change your keys.
Smart Key Key
A smart key takes technology one step further. Instead of using a standard key, this one has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at the press of one button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are an additional cost than traditional or transponder keys because of their integrated technology.
To function, these smart keys have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle that are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and begins its engine.
However, smart keys can also pose a security risk. If you're far from your vehicle it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.
The kind of car you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. As a general rule older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than the newer models. Some models may also require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob in order to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're worried about how the replacement cost will be, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement for less money and provide better service than a dealership.