9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major headache. A replacement key is usually obtained by making an appointment with an auto ignition key replacement locksmith or a dealer.

Based on the kind of key, prices differ based on the type of key. Some types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

There's an excellent chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if the car was built prior to the '90s. These keys are simple and have a metal head that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to turn the car on. They are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost you less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance using the remote control instead of having to insert the keys into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools. However, they cost more than the normal key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with a microchip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've been experiencing trouble with your car starting it might be a sign of a faulty ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard one, however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or can't be put in by gently turning the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged over time due to frequent use. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

You'll spend less on a replacement key if you have traditional keys. The keys are made of metal key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to work with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are often found in keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures only a valid and working key is used to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send every time they are used. This ensures that if someone takes the key away, your car won't start.

Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to unlock, lock, and open your car without the need to insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in vehicles made in the 1990s, since they're a convenient way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and give you additional convenience.

You will have to pay more when you need to replace the keyfob since it requires extra programming. Most dealerships will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for a specific sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded 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 in use. This type of key is available from a locksmith, an auto ignition key replacement dealer, or even online, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the key's functions and transmit a signal to your car when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car ignition replacement read-code. Professional car locksmiths are able to reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. These are usually available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets between $25 and $100. The cost of a new key fob with an integrated chip can range from $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob that has a switchblade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. If the key ignition replacement fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Certain keys might include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that hinder unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This stops thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the past two decades, it's likely that it is equipped with a transponder. The keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps to prevent the theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine if it matches. Without a working transponder key it will be impossible to start your car.

Be aware that car dealers will charge a higher price if you want to get a new transponder. This is because they're usually the only one in town that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring useless.

If you own transponder keys you may notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear out. The grooves on the lock allow the pins to move to a point where your car can begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are having these issues, it is time to call an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. The key instead of an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors and starting the car with the press of a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the technology integrated.

To function the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. They activate when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels from the door and body to the inside electronics that identify the smart key as valid. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer and starts its engine.

However, smart keys can also be a safety risk. If you're far from your vehicle there's a chance that someone can intercept the low-frequency signal and begin your car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to minimize the risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you use can influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older vehicles have lower replacement keys than modern models. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about how the replacement cost will be, call an area Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to going to the dealer. Our locksmiths are able to provide an alternative at a lower price and can often provide better service than the dealership.