How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car key is a huge hassle. A replacement key is usually obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.
Costs differ based on the kind of key. Some types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys including mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There’s the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if your car was manufactured before the ’90s. These keys have a metal head that is inserted in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to copy and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic keys An auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for less than $50.
In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and don’t require any special tools for doing so however they cost more than traditional keys.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle and ensures that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.
If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. This part will cost more than a standard one, however, it’s worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.
If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be placed in, try gently jiggling the key. This will assist in releasing the lock wafers which may be a little damaged from frequent use. This method isn’t always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.
Remote Key
It is possible to spend less on the replacement key if your car has traditional keys. They are made of metal shaft that is put into the fix ignition switch and then turned to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don’t require any special programming in order to function with your vehicle.
Transponder chips are often included in the keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is used and is able to turn on your engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send a new signal each time they are used. This means that if someone takes the key away and your car doesn’t start.
Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk without having to insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured in the 1990s, since they’re a simple method to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you added convenience.
You will have to pay more when you have to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealerships will charge a fee to program the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in the owner’s manual to a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounds as if it’s an armed weapon with blades for parking lot self-defense, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not in use. This type of key can be available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or on the internet, but it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs control the functions of your keys and will send an alert when they are within range. The car’s computer, or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths can modify your key and chip in the event that they are damaged or lost.
Simple, inexpensive fobs without an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob with an integrated chip can range from $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.
A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and programming. If the key fob isn’t damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Some of these keys may also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car’s computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This deters thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it much more difficult for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
If your car was built in the past two decades, it’s likely that it is equipped with a transponder. The chip on these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your G28 Car Keys is able to check the code and start the engine when it matches. If you don’t have a transponder key that works it will be impossible to start your car.
If you’re thinking about getting a new transponder key, you must be aware that the car dealership will charge you a fee for the service. This is because they’re usually the only one in town that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for less than the cost.
Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves started using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs. These can communicate with your car to start it. This technology can help prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring ineffective.
If you have a transponder key you might be noticing that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are starting to wear down. The grooves inside the lock move the pins to a point where your car is able to start. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you’re experiencing issues like this you should contact an expert auto locksmith to replace your key.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys take technology to the next level. This fob instead of being a standard key, contains a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as opening the car with the press of a button. Despite their convenience they are an additional cost than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.
To function the smart keys, they are equipped with the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle that activate when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the inside electronics which recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer and starts its engine.
Smart keys can present a risk to safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you’re far from your car an individual could pick up the low frequency signal and start your car by putting it in an ignition compatible with. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 cm to reduce the risk.
The model year and the type of vehicle you use can affect the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Additionally, certain models might require keys that are connected to the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you’re worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement for cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.
