Do Not Buy Into These "Trends" About Ignition Key Replacement Cost
How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a huge hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.
Costs vary based on type. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
If your car was constructed prior to the 1990s There is a good possibility that you still have an electronic key. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. They are easy to copy and do not contain electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost well under $50.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control rather than having to insert the key into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools for doing so, although they do cost a bit more than traditional keys.
Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, come 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 harder to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.
If you're having difficulties starting your car it could be due to a faulty switch. This component will cost more than a standard key but it is worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is secure.
If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be put in by gently turning the key. This will assist in releasing the lock wafers which may be a little damaged from frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may cause further damage.
Remote Key
You'll pay less for a replacement key if your car has a traditional key. These keys have a metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and then turned to turn the engine. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require any special programming to function with your vehicle.
Transponder chips are commonly found in keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is in use and able to start your engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send a new signal each time they are used. This means that if someone steals the key, your car won't start.
ignition lock repair are basically remote controls that allow you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as to set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in vehicles made after the 90s, as they're an easy way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to give you additional convenience.
You will have to pay more when you require replacing a keyfob because it requires extra programming. Most dealerships will charge an additional fee to program the new key fob, however 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 itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounds like an armed weapon with blades for parking lot self-defense however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not being used. This kind of key can be purchased at a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet however the price will be higher than traditional keys.
Key fobs control the functions of your key and send signals when they are within reach. The car's computer, or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are present in many modern vehicles. They transmit an unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key when they become damaged or lost.
Traditional keys can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob with a chip in could cost up to $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.
A key fob with an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, so if the key itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the blade and shank. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which make it impossible for unauthorized use to be they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This prevents thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely be used on cars manufactured within the last 20 years. The chip inside these keys helps prevent 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. If you don't have a transponder key that works, you won't be able to start your car.
If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key, you need to know that the dealership for your car will charge you a fee for the service. This is because they're often the only one in town that can make the kind of key your car needs. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for only a fraction of the cost.
Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by making hot-wiring useless.
You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves on the lock allow the pins to move to a point where your car can start. You will also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're experiencing these issues you should contact an auto locksmith professional to repair your key.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys take technology to the next level. Instead of using a standard key, this fob contains an electronic chip that communicates with your car, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the door and trunk and starting the engine with just the push of one button. Although they are convenient, these keys come at an additional cost than traditional or transponder keys because of their integrated technology.
They function by using they have LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels from the door and body to the inside electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer and starts its engine.
Smart keys can present a risk to safety. If you're far from your car, someone could take the low-frequency signal and begin your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce the risk.
The model of car you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older cars have lower replacement keys than newer models. Certain models may require a keyless system that is connected to the fob to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're anxious about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.