A Good Rant About Ignition Key Replacement Cost
How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car key could be a major headache. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.
Costs differ based on the type. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.
Mechanical Key
If your car was manufactured before the year 1990 There is a good possibility that you still have a mechanical key. These keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and cost well under $50.
Key fobs were popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate by an electronic remote, rather than being inserted into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a standard key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle and ensures that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.
If you've been experiencing trouble with your car starting it may be a sign of an issue with the ignition switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than a typical key replacement, but the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your car is safe is worth the investment.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be placed in, try gently jiggling the key. This will help release the lock wafers which may be a little damaged due to frequent usage. It is important to remember that this approach isn't always effective and may cause more damage.
Remote Key
It is possible to spend less on the replacement key if you have traditional keys. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the vehicle. They can be found 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 vehicles to prevent theft. The chips transmit a signal from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and is able to turn on your engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that even if someone takes the key away, your car won't start.
Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without the need to insert it into the ignition. They are more popular on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great way to secure your car from theft, and give you more convenience.
If you have a key fob that needs replacing be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. Most dealerships charge a fee for programming a new key fob, however, you can save money by following your owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself will typically cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounded like an armed weapon with blades for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not in use. This type of key is available from an auto dealer, or even online but it's more than traditional keys.
Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and send a signal 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, used since 1995, are present in most modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.
Traditional keys can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that do not have an integrated chip. ignition lock repair services are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob with an integrated chip can be as high as $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features offered by.
A key fob with the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, including the cost of a new battery and programming. The parts can typically be purchased separately, so when the key fob isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the shank and blade. In addition, some of these types of keys can include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that stop unauthorized use when they are inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder to open, and will make it harder for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. The chip in these keys prevents vehicle theft by sending a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine in the event that it matches. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle if you don't have an transponder key.
If you're considering buying an updated transponder key, you need to know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. They are often the only one that can create the specific type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key for only a fraction of the price.
Transponder keys are an important security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into 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 a transponder key you might be noticing that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving little pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues, it is time to contact an auto locksmith in order to repair your keys.
Smart Key
Smart keys take technology a step further. The key instead of an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the doors and trunk, as well as activating the car with a pressing of a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.
They function by having the LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels from the door and body to the interior electronics which recognize the smart key as valid. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and starts its engine.
Smart keys can pose a safety risk. If you're far from your car it is possible for someone to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.
The model year and the type of vehicle you use can influence the cost of replacing a key. As a rule older models are more likely to have more expensive replacement keys than newer ones. Also, some models may require keys that are connected to the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. If you're worried about how the replacement will cost, call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at a lower cost and often offer better service than the dealership.