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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car key could be a major headache. A replacement key is usually found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Depending on the type of key, costs vary. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of repair ignition lock cylinder keys: mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is placed in the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost less than $50.

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

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.

If you are having difficulties starting your car ignition lock it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. The replacement of this component will probably cost more than the average key replacement however the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your vehicle is safe is worth the investment.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be placed into the ignition key replacement cost, gently move the key. This can help release the lock wafers which may have been damaged from frequent use. This method is not always successful and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has traditional keys, you can expect to pay less for replacing it. They have a key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and turned to turn the engine. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special programming to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might contain a transponder chip inside it to prevent theft. The chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and is able to turn on your engine. The most 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 does manage to get the key and enter your car, it won't be able to start.

Key fobs are essentially an electronic remote control that lets 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. Key fobs are also more popular in vehicles made in the 1990s, since they're an easy way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to give you additional convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacement, be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to the exact sequence of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

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

Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and will send a signal when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will detect the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are incorporated into the majority of modern vehicles and transmit an exclusive code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Simple, inexpensive fobs without an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. You can usually find these at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with an integrated chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of a new batteries and programming. The component pieces can often be bought separately, so if the key fob itself isn't harmed you can just replace the shank and blade. Some of these keys may also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use when they are inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This deters thieves from attempting to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on cars manufactured within the past 20 years. The chip inside these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by your car's computer and the engine will start when the code matches. Without a working transponder key it will be impossible to start your vehicle.

If you're thinking of purchasing a new transponder key you need to know that the car ignition switch dealership 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 your car needs. Locksmiths, on the 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 technology known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and start it. This technology prevents car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.

If you own transponder keys you might notice that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are starting to wear down. This is because the grooves move tiny pins within the lock to a position that allows your car to begin. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing any of these issues it's time to contact a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology one 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 basic tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and starting the engine with the click of one button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder keys due to the technology integrated.

To work the smart keys work, they have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle that activate when you turn the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once recognized, the car removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.

However, smart keys could also pose a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your vehicle, someone could intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by placing it into an mobile ignition lock repair services that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can also influence the cost of replacing a key. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Certain models may require a keyless system that is integrated with the fob to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Call a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're anxious about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide an alternative at a lower cost and often offer better service than the dealership.