How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys is a huge hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.
Costs differ based on the kind of key. Some types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob as well as transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There is a good chance that you have a classic mechanical key if the car was built prior to the '90s. These basic keys are made of steel with a head that can be inserted into the ignition, then turned to start the car. They are easy to copy and do not have any 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 gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to operate by remote controls, rather than being put into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this however they cost more than traditional keys.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and generally cost more to have cut and programmed.
If you've experienced problems with your car starting, it could be due to an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard key, but it is worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe.
If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or unable to be inserted into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will help release the lock wafers that could have been damaged due to frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may result in further damage.
Remote Key
If your car has traditional keys and lock, you'll pay less to replace it. These keys feature a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to start it. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to work with your vehicle.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle, the key might have a transponder chip in it to prevent theft. These chips work by sending a signal from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is used and able to start your engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they're used, so that even if someone does manage to steal the key and open your car, it won't able to start.
Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to unlock, lock, and open your car without having to insert them into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in vehicles made after the '90s, as they're a convenient way to make your car more secure from theft and to give you additional convenience.
You'll have to pay more for require replacing a keyfob because it requires additional programming. Most dealerships will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to the exact sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob itself could cost you anywhere from $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 is actually a unique key that folds down into the fob. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or even online, but it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs regulate the functions of your key 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. G28 , used since 1995, are present in most modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional car locksmiths are able to change the chip and key when they become damaged or lost.
Keys that are traditional can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 and $100. A key fob replacement that has a chip built into it can cost as high as $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.
A key fob that has the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, not including the price 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 shank and blade. Additionally, some of these types of keys can include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to hinder unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This prevents thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
If your car was manufactured in the past two decades, chances are it has a transponder key. The chip in these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine will start if the code matches. Without a working transponder key, you won't be able to start your vehicle.
If you're considering buying a new transponder key you should know that the car dealership will charge you a fee for the service. They are often the only ones in town that can create the specific type of key that your car requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for only 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. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology prevents car theft as it renders hot-wiring ineffective.
If you have a transponder key you may be noticing that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are starting to wear down. The grooves in the lock move the pins to a position where your car can start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are experiencing these problems then it's time to call an auto locksmith to change your keys.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys take technology one step further. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you to do standard tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at the click of the button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder keys due to the technology integrated.
To function, these smart keys have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle that activate when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the inside electronics that recognize the smart key as valid. Once the smart key has been recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.
However, smart keys could also pose a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far away from your car, someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by putting it into a compatible ignition. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.
The model of car you drive and the model year can also affect the cost of replacing keys. In general older models are more likely to have more expensive replacement keys than those with more modern features. Some models might also require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.