How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.
Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There is an excellent chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if your car ignition key replacement was built prior to the ’90s. These keys are made of metal with a head which is placed in the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These keys are easy to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.
In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control rather than having to insert the key into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so although they will cost more than a traditional key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures 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 with your car starting it might be a sign of an ignition switch that is not working properly. This component will cost more than a standard one, however, it’s worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or cannot be inserted by gently turning the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged over time from frequent use. However, it is important to note that this is not always successful and may cause more damage.
Remote Key
You’ll spend less on a replacement key if your vehicle has traditional keys. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and turned to start the vehicle. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don’t need any special software to work with your car.
If you’re driving a brand newer car, your key could include a transponder chip within it to to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and is able to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit a new signal each time they are used. This means that if someone steals the key the car won’t be able to start.
Key fobs work as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without having to put it in the ignition cylinder replacement near me. They are also more prevalent in vehicles made in the 1990s, since they’re a simple way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and give you added convenience.
If you have an old key fob that requires replacing be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the instructions in the owner’s manual to a specific sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade car key might appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it’s actually a unique key that folds down into the fob. This kind of key can be purchased from a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet but the cost will be more than traditional keys.
Key fobs control the functions of your key and will send an alert when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer within the car will recognize the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost.
Simple, inexpensive fobs without an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob that has a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.
A key fob with the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Additionally certain types of keys can include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent unauthorised 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 take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys can be used on vehicles that were made in the past 20 years. The chip in 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 car is able to check the code and start the engine in the event that it matches. You will not be able to start your car without an transponder key.
Be aware that a car dealer will charge a premium when you’re looking to purchase an updated transponder. They are often the only ones in town that can create the specific type of key that your car requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.
Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves started using a technique known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to combat this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology can help prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring ineffective.
If you own a transponder key, you may notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear down. This is because the grooves shift little pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to 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 issues like this you should contact an auto locksmith professional to replace your key.
Smart Key
A smart key takes technology a step further. The key, instead of using an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the press of a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder keys due to the technology integrated.
To function the smart keys work, they have 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 doors to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.
But smart keys can also be a safety risk. If you’re not far from your car it is possible for someone to take the low-frequency signal, and then start your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to reduce the risk.
The model of vehicle you drive and its model year can impact the cost of replacement keys. In general, older vehicles have lower replacement keys than modern models. Some models may also require the use of a keyless system integrated with the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. Call a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you’re worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can offer an alternative at a lower price and can often provide better service than the dealership.
