How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a major headache. A replacement key is typically obtained by making an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith.
Based on the kind of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys available including mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
If your car was manufactured before the 1990s there is a good chance that you still have mechanical keys. These keys come with a metal head that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional lock, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost less than $50.
Key fobs became popular in the early 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance using a remote controller, rather than being put into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so, although they do cost more than a traditional key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer and ensures that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.
If you've been experiencing trouble getting your car to start, it could be a sign of an issue with the ignition switch. This component will cost more than a standard key however, it's worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is secure.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently move the key. This can assist in releasing the lock wafers that may be a little damaged from frequent use. However, it's important to keep in mind that this is not always successful and may cause more damage.
Remote Key
If your car has traditional keys that is a traditional key, you will spend less money to replace it. They have a shaft that's inserted in the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle.
Transponder chips are typically found in keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key is used to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit a new signal each time they are used. This means that if anyone takes the key away the car won't be able to start.
Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without the need to insert them into the ignition. They are more popular on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your vehicle from theft and provide you more convenience.
You'll have to pay more for require replacing the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealers will charge an additional fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual for a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself could cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade car key may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually an innovative key that folds down into a fob. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online, but the cost will be higher than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the key's functions and transmit a signal to your car when they are within range. The car's computer or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.
Keys that are traditional can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets ranging between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip into it can cost as high as $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.
A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, not including the cost of a new battery and programming. The components can usually be bought separately, so if the key fob itself isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This deters thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
If your car was manufactured in the past two decades, it's likely it has a transponder key. The chip inside these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The car's computer examines the code and then starts the engine when it matches. You will not be able to start your vehicle without an transponder key.
It is important to know that a car dealership will charge a premium for you to purchase an updated transponder. They are often the only one who can make the exact type of key your car requires. A locksmith, on the other hand can cut and program your new key at a only a fraction of the price.
Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves started using a technique known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology helps prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.
You may notice that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these problems, it is time to contact an auto locksmith to change your keys.
Smart Key
Smart keys take technology to the next level. The fob instead of a standard key, contains a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors and activating the car with a push a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the integrated technology.
To function, these smart keys have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. G28 Car Keys through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once recognized, the car removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.
However, smart keys can also be a safety risk. If you're far from your vehicle there's a chance that someone can intercept the low-frequency signal and begin your car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to reduce the risk.
The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive also influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older models have lower keys to replace than the latest models. Additionally, certain models might require an entry system that's keyless and integrated with the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower cost and usually provide better service than the dealership.