How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys could be a major hassle. A replacement key can usually be found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.
Based on the kind of key, prices vary. Certain kinds of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys including mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
There is a good chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured before the '90s. These keys are made of metal with a head that is placed in the ignition and turned to turn the car on. They are easy to duplicate and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic key an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it for a cost of less than $50.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control rather than needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than a standard key.
Transponder keys, first 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 experienced problems getting your car to start, it could be a sign of an ignition switch that is not working properly. Replacing this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement but the security that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe makes it worth the investment.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This can help free the lock wafers, which may have become slightly damaged over time from frequent use. This method isn't always successful and may result in further damage.
Remote Key
If your car has an old-fashioned key, you can expect to pay less for replacing it. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to turn it on to start it. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't need any special programming to function with your car.
If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, the key might have a transponder chip in it to prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key is used to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send every time they are used. This means that if someone is able to steal the key and your car doesn't start.
Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock, and open your car without the need to insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars built in the 1990s, since they're a convenient way to make your car more secure from theft and to give you added convenience.
You'll need to pay more for require replacing the keyfob since it requires extra programming. Most dealers will charge an additional fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe the exact sequence of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounds like a bladed weapon for self-defense in parking lots however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not in use. This kind of key is available from an auto dealer, or online however it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that control the key's functions and transmit signals to your car when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will be able to recognize the signal, and allow the engine start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are embedded in most modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional car locksmiths are able to change the chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.
Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that has a chip built into it can cost as high as $500, based on the features and manufacturer.
A key fob with a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of new batteries and programming. The components can usually be bought separately, so if the key itself isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. Some of these keys may also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and will make it harder for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
If your car was manufactured in the last two decades, chances are it uses a transponder key. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent vehicle theft. The car's computer checks the code and starts the engine in the event that it matches. You won't be able to start your car without a transponder key.
If you're considering buying an updated transponder key, you should know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is due to the fact that they're the only one in town who can create the kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price.
Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, when car thieves started using a method known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. G28 began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to stop this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and start it. This technology can help prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring ineffective.
If you own a transponder key you might be noticing that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear down. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock into a position that allows your car to start up. You will 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 problems you should call an auto locksmith to replace your keys.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys bring technology to the next level. Instead of a traditional key, this one has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine with the click of a button. These keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.
To function the smart keys work, they have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle that are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.
However, smart keys can also be a safety risk. If you're too far away from your car there's a chance that someone can intercept the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by simply placing it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.
The model of car you drive and its model year can impact the cost of replacement keys. In general, older vehicles have lower keys to replace than the latest models. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's connected to the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're anxious about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower price and usually provide better service than the dealership.