20 Trailblazers Leading The Way In Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major headache. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Costs vary based on type. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available including mechanical remote keyfob, remote, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the year 1990 There is a good chance that you still have mechanical keys. These simple keys come with a metal head that is placed in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional lock, it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the '90s and are designed to operate by remote controls instead of being inserted into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate and do not require any special tools. However, they cost more than the standard key.

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you have difficulties starting your car it could be due to a faulty switch. Having this part replaced is likely to cost more than the average key replacement but the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your car is safe makes it worth the investment.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be inserted, try gently jiggling the key. This could aid in releasing the lock wafers that may have been slightly damaged from frequent use. However, it's important to remember that this method isn't always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has a traditional key, you can expect to spend less money to replace it. They are made of metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to begin it. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to work with your car.

Transponder chips are typically included in the keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures that only a genuine and functioning key is used to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This ensures that if anyone steals the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without having to put it in the ignition. They are more popular for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to protect your car from theft, and also give you more convenience.

You'll need to pay more if you have to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. Most dealers 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 specific sequences of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like the bladed weapon used for parking lot self-defense, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not being used. This type of key can be purchased from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online but the cost will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs regulate the functions of your key and transmit signals when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer in the car will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are present in many modern vehicles. They transmit an unique code that only your car can read. Professional car locksmiths are able to change the chip and key when they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets ranging between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob with an integrated chip can range from $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob that has a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, so if the key fob itself isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. In addition certain types of keys may include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will stop thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder, and it will also make it more difficult for them copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be used on cars manufactured within the last 20 years. The chip inside keys can help prevent theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine if it matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle without a transponder key.

If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key you need to know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a fee for the service. They are often the only ones in town who can make the exact type of key your vehicle requires.  G28CarKeys , on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves inside the lock allow the pins to move into a position that allows your car can begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are having these issues you should call an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. The fob instead of the standard key, has a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to perform standard tasks like unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as starting the car with the pressing of a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the technology integrated.

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

Smart keys could present a risk to safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far from your car someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by placing it into an ignition that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to reduce the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of replacing a key. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Some models might also require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're worried about how much your replacement will cost you can call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement for a lower cost and offer better service than dealerships.