How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key is usually found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.
Costs differ based on the kind of key. Certain kinds of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.
G28CarKeys
If your car was built prior to the 1990s There is a good chance that you still have an electronic key. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start the car. They are easy to duplicate and don't have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic keys An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at a cost of less than $50.
Key fobs gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to operate by an electronic remote instead of being inserted into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the regular key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle, ensuring that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.
If you're having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. The replacement of this component will probably cost more than the average key replacement however the assurance from knowing that your car is safe is worth the cost.
If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be inserted, try gently jiggling the key. This could help to release the lock wafers that could have been damaged over time from frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with traditional keys and lock, you'll pay less to replace it. These keys have a metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition, and then turned to turn the engine. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle.
Transponder chips are typically included in the keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures only a valid and working key can be inserted to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that if someone is able to steal the key, your car won't start.
Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without the need to put it in the ignition. These are also more common in cars built in the 1990s, since they're a simple way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.
You will have to pay more when you require replacing a keyfob because it requires extra programming. Most dealers will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual for the exact sequence of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade car key might appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a novel key that folds down into the fob. This type of key can be bought at a locksmith, auto dealer or even online however the price will be higher than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the key's functions and transmit signals to your car when it is 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 embedded in the majority of modern vehicles and transmit an exclusive code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key if they become damaged or lost.
Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that have no integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with an integrated chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and the features that are included.
A key fob equipped with a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys may include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to make it impossible for unauthorized use to be inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. 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 built in the last two decades, it's likely it has a transponder key. The chip on these keys prevents vehicle theft by sending 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 in the event that it matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle if you don't have an transponder key.
If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key you must be aware 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 vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for 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 for vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip into their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to start it. This technology prevents car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.
If you own transponder keys, you may notice that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are starting to wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to start up. 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're experiencing any of these issues you should contact an expert auto locksmith to repair your key.
Smart Key
A smart key takes technology a step further. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has a computer chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine with the press of the button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the integrated technology.
To function, these smart keys have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels from the door and body to the interior electronics which identify the smart key as valid. Once it is recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.
Smart keys can pose a safety risk. If you're not far from your car, someone could detect the low-frequency signal and start your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to reduce the risk.
The kind of vehicle you drive and its model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Some models may also require the use of a keyless system integrated with the fob in order to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at less money and provide better service than dealerships.