How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys could be a major hassle. A replacement key can usually be found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Costs vary depending on the type. Certain car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys including mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
If your car was manufactured before the 1990s, there is a high chance that you still have an electronic key. These basic keys are made of steel with a head which is inserted into the ignition, then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and don’t contain electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic lock an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it at a cost of less than $50.
Key fobs gained popularity in the ’90s and are designed to be operated from a distance with an electronic remote instead of being placed into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate, and don’t require any special tools. However, they cost more than the regular key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle, ensuring that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.
If you’re having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. This part will cost you more than a standard one, but it is worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is secure.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can’t be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This will assist in releasing the lock wafers which may have been damaged from frequent use. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this approach isn’t always successful and may cause more damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key that is a traditional key, you will 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 don’t require any special programming to work with your vehicle.
Transponder chips are typically included in the keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips work by sending an electronic signal from the key to a receiver in 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 called rolling keys, that send a different signal every time they’re used so that even if a person manages to steal the key and open your vehicle, it won’t be in a position to start.
Key fobs work as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without having to insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in cars built after the 90s, as they’re an easy way to make your car more secure from theft and to give you additional convenience.
You will have to pay more if you have to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. The majority of dealers will charge the cost of programming the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner’s manual for a specific sequence of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 and $100.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounds as if it’s a bladed weapon for parking lot self-defense, but this is just an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when it is not in use. This type of key can be available from a locksmith ignition replacement cost, an auto dealer, or even online but it’s more than traditional keys.
Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and will send an alert when they are within reach. The car’s computer or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are embedded in most modern vehicles and transmit an unique code that only your car can read. Professional car locksmiths are able to modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost.
Simple, cheap fobs that don’t have an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 and $100. The cost of a new key fob with a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.
A key fob that incorporates an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, not including the price of a new battery and programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent misuse by sending various codes to the car’s computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it more difficult for them copy the key.
Transponder Key
If your car was made in the past two decades, chances are it is equipped with a transponder. These keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. You won’t be allowed to start your vehicle if you don’t have the transponder key.
If you’re thinking of purchasing a new transponder key you must be aware that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is due to the fact that they’re the only shop in town who can create the kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost.
Transponder keys are a safety measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring useless.
You might notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves inside the lock are able to move the pins into a position that allows your car ignition barrel replacement near me can start. You will 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 problems, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to repair ignition lock cylinder your keys.
Smart Key
Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has an electronic chip that communicates with your car, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at the click of a button. Despite their ease of use, these keys come at more expensive than transponder keys or traditional keys due to their integrated technology.
To work the smart keys, they are equipped with the 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 through the body and door to the inside electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once it is recognized, the car removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.
But smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you’re too far away from your car, an individual could pick up the low-frequency signal and start your car by placing it into a compatible ignition cylinder replacement near me. Some manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.
The model year and the type of vehicle you drive also influence the cost of replacing a key. In general, older vehicles have lower replacement keys than newer models. Some models also require an entry system that’s keyless and integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you’re concerned about how much your replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to going to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement for a lower cost and offer better service than a dealership.