9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys is a huge hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.

Depending on the type of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured before the 1990s there is a good possibility that you still have a mechanical key. These keys are made of metal with a head that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional lock, it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate by an electronic remote, rather than being inserted into the ignition lock repair services. They are easy to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the normal key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer and ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've been experiencing trouble getting your car to start, it could be due to an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost you more than a standard one, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition key replacement, gently jiggle the key. This could help release the lock wafers that might be a little damaged due to frequent usage. This method is not always successful and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has an old-fashioned key, you can expect to spend less money to replace it. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to work with your car.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might have a transponder chip in it to help to prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key can be used to start the engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used so that even if someone manages to take the key and then open your car, it won't capable of starting.

Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock and even open your car without the need to insert it into the ignition. These are more common 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 for it because they require additional programming. Most dealerships will charge an additional fee to program the new key fob, however you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for the exact sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key might sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a novel key that folds up into a fob. This type of key can be bought from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the key's functions and transmit an alert to your vehicle when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are incorporated into most modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is lost or damaged.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can range from $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features offered by.

A key fob with an adjustable blade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of a new batteries and the programming. If the key fob isn't damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some keys include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and will make it more difficult for them copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be found on vehicles built in the last 20 years. The keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This can help prevent theft of your vehicle. The code is verified by your car's computer and the engine starts if the code matches. You will not be able to start your car without an transponder key.

It is important to know that car dealers will charge you a fee for you to purchase an updated transponder. This is because they're often the only place that can make the type of key your car needs. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, when car thieves began using a method called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and then start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by making hot-wiring useless.

If you own a transponder key, you may observe that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear down. The grooves inside the lock move the pins to a point where your car is able to 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 ignition switch replacement. If you're experiencing any of these issues you should contact an auto ignition key replacement locksmith professional to replace your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. Instead of a traditional key, this one has an electronic chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform basic tasks such as opening the trunk and door and starting the engine with the click of one button. These keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due to the integrated technology.

To work, these smart keys have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. They activate when you turn the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics which identify the smart key as valid. Once the smart key ignition replacement is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys could be a security risk. If you're far from your car there's a chance that someone can detect the low-frequency signal and begin your vehicle by simply 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 year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of replacing a key. In general, older vehicles have lower replacement keys than modern models. Also, some models may require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to enable 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 are able offer a replacement at a lower cost and offer superior service than a dealership.