10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

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Losing your car keys could be a major headache. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Costs vary depending on the type. Certain keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys available that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These simple keys are metal with a head that is placed in the ignition and key replacement and turned to start the car. These keys are easy to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control rather than needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to accomplish this although they will cost a little more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with a microchip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer, ensuring that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.

If you have trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This part will cost more than a standard key, however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your car is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which could have been damaged over time from frequent use. However, it's important to keep in mind that this approach isn't always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with traditional keys, you can expect to pay less to replace it. These keys have a metal shaft that's inserted in the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special software to work with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are often included in the keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to a device in the ignition key replacement to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and is able to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if a person manages to steal the key and open your car, it won't able to start.

Key fobs are basically an electronic remote control that lets 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. They are more popular for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to protect your vehicle from theft and provide you more convenience.

If you have a key fob that needs replacing be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to specific sequences of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you 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 an innovative key that folds down into a fob. This kind of key can be purchased at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer or even online however the price will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the key's functions and transmit an alert to your vehicle when they are within reach. The car's computer, or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost ignition key.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in could cost up to $500, depending on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob that has an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, so if the key fob itself isn't harmed you can just replace the shank and blade. Some of these keys may also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that prevent unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This deters thieves from trying to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the last two decades, it's likely it uses a transponder key. The chip inside these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine is started when the code is found to match. Without a working transponder key you won't be able to start your car.

If you're thinking of purchasing a new transponder key you should know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is due to the fact that they're the only place that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, as car thieves started using a technique called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology helps prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring obsolete.

If you have transponder keys you might notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear down. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car to begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are experiencing these problems, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to do standard tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at the press of one button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

To function the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that recognize the smart key as valid. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

But smart keys can also pose a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far away from your car, someone could intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by inserting it into a compatible ignition. Some manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive can influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older vehicles have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Additionally, certain models might require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about the replacement cost will be you can call an area Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide an upgrade at a lower cost and can often provide better service than the dealership.