How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys could be a major hassle. A replacement key is typically obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Costs differ based on the type. Certain kinds of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that include mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There's the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys are made of metal with a head that can be put into the ignition and then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to duplicate and do not contain electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic keys An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at less than $50.
Key fobs were popular in the '90s and are designed to be operated from a distance with a remote controller instead of being put into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost a little more than a traditional key.
Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.
If you've experienced problems with your car starting it may be the result of an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard key but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your car is secure.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be inserted into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can aid in releasing the lock wafers which may have been damaged due to frequent usage. However, it is important to note that this approach isn't always effective and may cause further damage.
Remote Key
It is possible to spend less on an alternative key if you have traditional keys. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle.
Transponder chips are often found in the keys of modern vehicles to prevent theft. The chips transmit signals from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and able to start your engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which send an entirely different signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if someone manages to get the key and enter your car, it won't be able to start.
Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as as set off the alarm or open the trunk without the need to insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars built in the 1990s, since they're an easy method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.
You'll have to pay more for need to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealerships will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual that describe a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 and $100.
Switchblade Key
The car key with a switchblade may seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds up into a fob. This kind of key can be purchased from a locksmith, auto dealer, or even online, but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.
Key fobs manage the functions of your key and send an alert when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will detect the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are present in most modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip if lost or damaged.
Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. ignition switch replacement are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets ranging between $25 and $100. The cost of a replacement key fob that has a built-in chip can range from $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features included.
A key fob that has a switchblade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that if the key fob itself isn't damaged, you can replace the blade and shank. Certain keys might also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to stop misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, and it will also make it difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were made in the last 20 years. The keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps to prevent the theft of your vehicle. The car's computer checks the code and starts the engine if it matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle if you don't have the transponder key.
If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key, you should know that the dealership for your car will charge you a fee for the service. This is because they're often the only shop in town that can produce the specific type of key that your car needs. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for only a fraction of the cost.
Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to stop this. The chip is able to communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by making hot-wiring ineffective.
You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves in the lock allow the pins to move to a position where your car can begin. 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're experiencing these issues, it's time to call a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.
Smart Key
Smart keys take technology to the next level. Instead of a traditional key, this type of key has a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to do standard tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and starting the engine with the press of a button. Despite their convenience, these keys come at an additional cost than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.
To work, these smart keys have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle that activate when you turn the door or trunk handle. 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 recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and begins its engine.
Smart keys could present a risk to safety. If you're not far from your car there's a chance that someone can take the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 cm to reduce the risk.
The kind of vehicle you drive and the model year can also affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models have lower replacement keys than modern models. Some models may also require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower price and usually provide better service than the dealership.