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.

Depending on the kind of key, prices vary. Some car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys available: mechanical remote keyfob, remote, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There is the possibility that you have a traditional mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys have a metal head that is inserted in the ignition and then turned to start the car. They are easy to copy and do not contain electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic lock an auto locksmith could easily cut the key and program it for less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than a standard key.

Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.

If you're having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. Replacing this component is likely to cost more than a standard key replacement, but the security that comes from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the cost.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be placed in by gently turning the key. This will help release the lock wafers that could have been damaged over time from frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may result in further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for a replacement key if your vehicle has a traditional key. These keys have a metal key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and turned to turn the engine. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to work with your car.

Transponder chips are commonly included in the keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key is used to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used so that even if a person manages to take the key and then open your vehicle, it won't be capable of starting.

Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without having to put it in the ignition. They are more prevalent on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great way to secure your car from theft, and also give you more convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacement, be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge a fee to program the new one, but 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 itself could cost between $50 to $100 or more.

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 into the fob when it is not being used. This kind of key can be bought from a locksmith, auto dealer, or even online but the cost will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your key and send a signal when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer in the car will recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob with a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob equipped with an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. In addition certain types of keys can include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition and key replacement cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and immobilizer of the vehicle. This will prevent thieves from forcing your fix ignition switch cylinder to open, and will make it difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the last two decades, it's likely it is equipped with a transponder. The chip inside these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The car's computer examines the code and then starts the engine when it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works you won't be able to start your car.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key, you need to know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a fee for the service. This is because they're often the only shop in town that can make the kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 1980s. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology can help prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring ineffective.

If you have transponder keys you might observe that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear out. The grooves on the lock allow the pins to move to a position where your car can begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are having these issues, it is time to call an auto locksmith to repair your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology a step further. This fob, instead of using an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors and starting the car with the pressing of a button. These 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 inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels from the door and body to the inside electronics that recognize the smart key as valid. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and starts its engine.

Smart keys could be a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far away from your car, someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car ignition switch replacement by putting it in an ignition lock repair near me compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to reduce the risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you use can also influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older vehicles have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's connected to the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths are able offer a replacement at a lower cost and offer better service than a dealership.