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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost? Losing your car key is a huge hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith. Based on the type of key, prices differ based on the type of key. Certain types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.
There's the possibility that you have a classic mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These simple keys are metal with a head which is put into the ignition and turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and cost you less than $50. In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control rather than needing to insert the key into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the regular key. Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and generally cost more to cut and programmed. If you've experienced problems when your car starts it might be the result of a faulty ignition switch. This part will cost more than a standard key, but it is worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is safe. If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could help release the lock wafers which may be a little damaged from frequent use. However, it is important to keep in mind that this approach isn't always successful and may cause further damage. Remote Key If your car has traditional keys that is a traditional key, you will pay less to replace it. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to function with your vehicle. Transponder chips are commonly found in the keys of modern vehicles to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key can be inserted to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, that send a different signal every time they're used, so that even if someone manages to steal the key and open your car, it won't capable of starting. Key fobs are basically a remote control that allows you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk without having to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built in the 1990s, since they're a convenient way to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you additional convenience. You'll need to pay more if you have to replace a keyfob because it requires extra programming. Most dealerships will charge an additional fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in the owner's manual to a specific sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50-$100. Switchblade Key The car key with a switchblade may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds into a fob. This kind of key is available from an auto dealer, or online, but it will cost more than traditional keys. Key fobs manage the functions of your key and transmit an alert when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer in the car will be able to recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are present in many modern vehicles. They transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key when they become damaged or lost. Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. These are usually available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets ranging between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer. A key fob with the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, meaning that if the key itself isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. In addition, some of these types of keys may include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will prevent thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder to open, and will make it difficult for them to duplicate the key. Transponder Key Transponder keys can be used on cars built in the last 20 years. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This helps to prevent the theft of your vehicle. The code is verified by your car's computer and the engine will start if the code matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle without an transponder key. You should be aware that a car dealership will charge a premium when you're looking to purchase a new transponder. This is because they're usually the only shop in town who can create the type of key that your vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost. Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology can help prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring obsolete. If you own transponder keys you may be noticing that the grooves on the metallic portion 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. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you are experiencing these issues, it is time to call an auto locksmith to change your keys. To work the smart keys, they are equipped with the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you turn the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels from the door and body to the inside electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once the car is identified, it removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine. Smart keys could present a risk to safety. If you're not far from your car it is possible for someone to intercept the low-frequency signal, and then start your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to minimize the risk. The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of a replacement key. In general, older vehicles have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Also, some models may require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Call 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 are able provide a replacement at a lower cost and offer superior service than a dealership. |
