How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car key can be a major hassle. A replacement key is usually found by making an appointment with a dealer or auto ignition key replacement locksmith.
Based on the type of key, costs vary. Certain keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob as well as transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There’s an excellent chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if the car was manufactured before the ’90s. These keys come with a metal head that is placed in the ignition and then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to duplicate and don’t contain electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic keys An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at the price of less than $50.
Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with remote controls instead of being inserted into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so although they will cost a little more than traditional keys.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle’s immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.
If you’ve been experiencing trouble getting your car to start it might be the result of an issue with the ignition switch. This component will cost more than a standard one, however, it’s worth the investment to ensure that your car is safe.
If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently move the key. This will assist in releasing the lock wafers which may have been slightly damaged due to frequent usage. This method is not always successful and may result in further damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key that is a traditional key, you will pay less for replacing it. They are made of metal shaft that is inserted into the Vehicle Locksmith‘s ignition and then turned to begin it. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don’t require special programming to work with your car.
Transponder chips are typically found in keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. The chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is used and is able to turn on your engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they’re used, so that even if someone manages to take the key and then open your vehicle, it won’t be in a position to start.
Key fobs work as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your car without the need to insert them into the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured after the ’90s, as they’re an easy way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to give you added convenience.
You’ll need to pay more if you have to replace a keyfob because it requires additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee to program the new key fob, however, you can save money by following the owner’s guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounded like the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots however, it’s actually an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not in use. This type of key can be available from an auto dealer, or on the internet however it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs manage the functions of your key and send signals when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer within the car will detect the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are embedded in many modern vehicles. They transmit an unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your key and chip if lost ignition key or damaged.
Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets ranging between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and the features that are included.
A key fob with an adjustable blade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of replacing batteries and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that when the key fob isn’t damaged, it’s possible to replace the blade and shank. In addition, some of these types of keys may include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to make it impossible for unauthorized use to be they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car ignition replacement. This will stop thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder to open, 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 built in the past 20 years. The chip on keys can help prevent 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 when it matches. You won’t be able to start your car without an transponder key.
It is important to know that car dealers will charge you a fee when you’re looking to purchase an updated transponder. This is because they’re often the only place who can create the kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a only a fraction of the price.
Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car’s engine to start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring useless.
You might observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves inside the lock are able to move the pins to a position where your car can start. You’ll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car isn’t visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you’re experiencing these issues you should contact a professional auto locksmith to change your key.
Smart Key
Smart keys take technology to the next level. Rather than using a regular key, this one has a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine with the press of one button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.
To function the smart keys, they are equipped with to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open a 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 disables the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.
However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. 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 putting it into an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.
The model of car you drive and the model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that’s integrated with the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you’re concerned about the replacement cost will be you can call an area Pop-A-Lock branch to receive a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at a lower cost and can often provide superior service than the dealership.