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.

Depending on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys available that include mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s there is a good likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These keys come with a metal head that is inserted in the ignition, and then turned to turn the car on. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic keys, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at the price of less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate by remote controls, rather than being inserted 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 were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle, ensuring that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you're having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. This part will cost more than a standard key however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or can't be inserted, try gently jiggling the key. This will aid in releasing the lock wafers that may have been slightly damaged due to frequent usage. However, it is important to keep in mind that this method isn't always successful and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with a traditional key and lock, you'll 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 or a locksmith, and they don't need any special software to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer car, your key could contain a transponder chip inside it to help in preventing theft. These chips work by sending an electronic signal from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and able to start your engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which send an entirely different signal each time they're used so that even if someone manages to get the key and enter your car, it won't in a position to start.

Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows 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. These are more common for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your car from theft, and also give you more convenience.

You will have to pay more when you require replacing the keyfob since it requires extra programming. Most dealerships charge a fee to program the new key fob, however, you can save cash by following the owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself could cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The car key with a switchblade may seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds into the fob. This type of key is available at 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 transmit an alert when they are within reach. The car's computer, or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995 and provide a unique, only-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Simple, inexpensive fobs without an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that comes with a chip into it can cost as high as $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob that has a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, not including the price of a new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, so when the key fob isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which stop unauthorized use when they are inserted in the ignition key replacement cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This deters thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the past two decades, it's likely that it has a transponder key. The chip inside these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine starts if the code matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle if you don't have the transponder key.

If you're thinking about getting 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 place that can make the type of key that your car needs. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a security measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology stops car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

If you own transponder keys you might notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're having these issues, it is time to call an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. The fob instead of the standard key, has an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and doors and activating the car with a push a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.

These smart keys work through LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the inside electronics, which identify it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and starts its engine.

However, smart keys can also be a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your vehicle, someone could be able to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by putting it into a compatible ignition lock repair near me. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The kind of car you drive and its model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Also, some models may require keys that are connected to the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at less money and provide better service than dealerships.