The Most Hilarious Complaints We've Seen About Ignition Key Replacement Cost
How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a major hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.
Costs differ based on the kind of key. Some types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob as well as transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
If your car was built before the year 1990 there is a good likelihood that you have mechanical keys. These basic keys are made of steel with a head which is put into the ignition and then turned to start the car. They are easy to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic key an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it at the price of less than $50.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the regular key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle and ensures that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.
If you're having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than the average key replacement but the assurance from knowing that your car is safe is worth the cost.
If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could assist in releasing the lock wafers which may have been slightly damaged by frequent use. However, it is important to remember that this is not always effective and may cause more damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key, you can expect to pay less to replace it. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to start it. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming to work with your car.
Transponder chips are commonly found in keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key can be inserted to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send an updated signal each time they are used. This means that even if someone is able to steal the key and your car doesn't start.
Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without the need to put it in the ignition. They are more prevalent on cars built after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to secure your car from theft and provide you more convenience.
You'll need to pay more if you require replacing the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob but you can save some cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key 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 to defend yourself in the parking lot, but this is just an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when it is not in use. This kind of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or on the internet but it's more than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of the key and send a signal to your car when it is within range. The car's computer or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional car locksmiths are able to reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost.
Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob with a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.
A key fob with a switchblade can cost between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and the programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that if the key fob itself isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. In addition, some of these types of keys come with a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. g28carkeys.co.uk contain resistors which stop unauthorized use when they are inserted in the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This deters thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were made in the past 20 years. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This helps to prevent vehicle theft. The car's computer is able to check the code and start the engine when it matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle without a transponder key.
You should be aware that car dealers will charge a premium for you to purchase an updated transponder. This is because they're often the only shop in town who can create the type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.
Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves started using a technique called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs that can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by making hot-wiring useless.
You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins within the lock into a position that allows your car to start up. You'll 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 are having these issues you should call an auto locksmith to change your keys.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys take technology one step further. Instead of using a standard key, this one has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform standard tasks like unlocking the door and trunk and starting the engine with the press of a button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are more expensive than traditional or transponder keys due to their integrated technology.
To work, these smart keys have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. They activate when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior that recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once the car is identified, it stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.
Smart keys can pose 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 car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to minimize the risk.
The model of car you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older cars have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Some models might also require a keyless system that is connected to the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. Call a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're anxious about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower price and can often provide better service than the dealership.