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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

The loss of your car keys can be a major headache. A replacement key is usually found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Depending on the kind of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Some car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob, switchblade, and transponder.





Mechanical Key

There's a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the car. They are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic key, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for a cost of less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance with a remote controller, rather than being put into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so although they will cost more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've been experiencing trouble with your car starting it may be the result of a faulty ignition switch. This part will cost you 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 put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will help release the lock wafers that may have been slightly damaged by frequent use. It is important to keep in mind that this method isn't always effective and may cause further damage.

G28 Car Keys

If your car is equipped with traditional keys and lock, you'll spend less money to replace it. The keys are made of metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and turned to start the vehicle. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't need any special programming to function with your car.

If you're driving a more modern vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to in preventing theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key can be inserted to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they're used, so that even if someone does manage to take the key and then open your car, it won't be capable of starting.

Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk without having to insert it into the ignition. These are more common on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great method to secure your car from theft, and also give you more convenience.

If you have a key fob that needs replacing, be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealerships will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for specific sequences of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's an armed weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not being used. This type of key is available from a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet but the cost will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your key and transmit an alert 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 have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read-code. Professional car locksmiths are able to change the chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be substituted with cheap, simple fobs with no integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets ranging between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob with a chip into it can cost as high as $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of new batteries and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys may include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder, and also makes it more difficult for them duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the last two decades, it's likely it is equipped with a transponder. These keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent the theft of your vehicle. The car's computer examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. Without a functioning transponder key you won't be able to start your car.

You should be aware that a car dealership will charge a higher price when you're looking to purchase an updated transponder. This is because they're usually the only place who can create the type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, when car thieves started using a technology called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car and start it. This technology can help prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.

If you have a transponder key you might observe that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear out. This is because the grooves move little pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to start up. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are having these issues then it's time to call an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. Rather than using a regular key, this type of key has a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at just the push of the button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

They function by using LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your vehicle, someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by putting it into an ignition that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit this risk.

The type of car you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Some models also require keys that are connected to the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide an alternative at a lower price and often offer superior service than the dealership.