How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a major headache. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.
Based on the type of key, costs vary. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are van ignition repair of ignition keys: mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
There is an excellent chance that you have a classic mechanical key if your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys are simple and come with a metal head that is placed in the ignition and then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at a cost of less than $50.
Key fobs became popular in the '90s and are designed to operate from a distance using an electronic remote instead of being put into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However, they cost more than the standard key.
Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.
If you've had trouble when your car starts, it could be a sign of a faulty ignition switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than a typical key replacement, but the assurance from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the cost.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or cannot be inserted Try gently jiggling the key. This will aid in releasing the lock wafers that may have been damaged by frequent use. It is important to keep in mind that this method isn't always successful and may cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car has a traditional key that is a traditional key, you will pay less 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 and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming to work with your vehicle.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might contain a transponder chip inside it to help prevent theft. These chips work by sending a signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is in use and able to start your engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send an updated signal each time they are used. This means that if someone is able to steal the key and your car doesn't start.
Key fobs are basically a remote control that allows you to lock or unlock your car, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the ignition. These are more common for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great way to secure your car from theft, and also give you more convenience.
You'll have to pay more if you need to replace a keyfob because it requires additional programming. Most dealers will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to a specific sequence of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounded like a bladed weapon for self-defense in parking lots however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when it is not being used. This kind of key can be purchased from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online however the price will be higher than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of keys and send an alert to your vehicle when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will recognize the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are embedded in many modern vehicles. They transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is lost or damaged.
Simple, inexpensive fobs without an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can range from $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.
A key fob that incorporates an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that when the key fob isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. Additionally, some of these types of keys come with VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use when they are they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. This will prevent thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and will make it more difficult for them duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys can be used on vehicles that were made in the last 20 years. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This can help prevent the theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. You will not be able to start your car without an transponder key.
Be aware that car dealers will charge you a fee if you want to get a new transponder. This is because they're often the only one in town that can make the type of key that your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.
Transponder keys are a safety measure that came into play when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring useless.
You may notice that the grooves of your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins within the lock to a position that allows your car to begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're having these issues you should contact an auto locksmith to change your keys.
Smart Key
Smart keys take technology one step further. The fob instead of being the standard key, has an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as opening the car with the press of a button. Although they are convenient, these keys come at a higher price than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.
They function by having LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as an authentic smart key. When the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and begins its engine.
Smart keys could be a security risk. If you're far from your vehicle 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. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.
The type of vehicle you drive and its model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Some models might also require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at a lower price and can often provide better service than the dealership.