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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys is a huge hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Costs differ based on the kind of key. Certain kinds of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available including mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There is the possibility that you own a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These keys come with a metal head that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. They are easy to copy and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic key, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for the price of less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to be operated from a distance with a remote controller instead of being placed into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer, ensuring that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.

If you have difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. Replacing this component will probably cost more than a typical key replacement but the assurance with knowing your vehicle is safe makes it worth the expense.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged over time due to frequent use. However, it is important to keep in mind that this approach isn't always successful and can sometimes cause more damage.

Remote Key

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

If you're driving a newer car, your key could contain a transponder chip inside it to help to prevent theft. These chips transmit 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. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This ensures that if someone steals the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs are essentially an electronic remote control that lets you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as to set off the alarm or open the trunk, without the need to insert it into the ignition. They are more prevalent for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacing be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealers will charge a fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual for specific sequences of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like an armed weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key can be available from an auto dealer, or even online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of keys and send 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 integrated into newer vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features offered by.

A key fob with a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that if the key fob itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the blade and shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys can include a VATS 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 will stop thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and will make it difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be used on vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. The chip inside keys can help prevent theft by transmitting the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine if it matches. You won't be allowed to start your car without the transponder key.

If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key, you should know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're usually the only shop in town that can make the type of key that your car needs. car ignition switch replacement can program and cut your new key at a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs to combat this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology stops car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.





You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins within the lock to a position that allows your car to start. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's time to call a professional auto locksmith to change your key.

Smart Key

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

The smart keys function through they have LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels from the door and body to the interior electronics which identify the smart key as valid. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and begins its engine.

However, smart keys can also be a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far away from your car, someone could intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by placing it into a compatible ignition. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to minimize this risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you drive can influence the cost of a replacement key. In general older cars tend to have more expensive replacement keys than newer ones. Some models might also require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're anxious about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at a lower cost and usually provide better service than the dealership.