What's The Ugly Reality About Ignition Key Replacement Cost
How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys could be a major headache. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.
Costs differ based on the kind of key. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys: mechanical remote keyfob, remote, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
There's a good chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic lock an auto locksmith could easily cut the key 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 instead of having to insert the key into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a regular key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle, ensuring that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.
If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. Replacing this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is secure makes it worth the investment.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be placed into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which may have become slightly damaged due to frequent use. However, it's important to note that this is not always successful and can sometimes cause more damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with a traditional key and lock, you'll pay less to replace it. These keys feature 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 vehicle.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle, your key may have a transponder chip in it to prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to a receiver in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is used and is able to turn on your engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit an updated signal each time they are used. This ensures that if anyone takes the key away and your car doesn't start.
Key fobs are essentially a remote control that allows you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk, without the need to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in vehicles made in the 1990s, since they're a simple method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to provide you with additional convenience.
You'll have to pay more when you need to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. The majority of 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 specific sequences of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 and $100.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounded like an armed weapon with blades for parking lot self-defense however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not being used. This kind of key is available at a locksmith, auto dealer or even online, but the cost will be more than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the functions of keys and send a signal to your car when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer in the car will be able to recognize the signal and permit the engine to start. Transponder chips are embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional car locksmiths are able to modify your key and chip when they become damaged or lost.
Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for $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 incorporates a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that when the key fob isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the shank and blade. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. 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 last two decades, it's likely it uses a transponder key. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent vehicle theft. The code is verified by the computer in your car, and the engine is started if the code matches. Without a functioning transponder key it will be impossible to start your vehicle.
You should be aware that a car dealership will charge you a fee for you to purchase a new transponder. They are usually the only people in town that can create the specific type of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost.
Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 80s. To stop does a new ignition switch require a new key , General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs. These can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology prevents car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.
You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. The grooves in the lock are able to move the pins into a position that allows your car can start. You will also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing issues like this you should contact an expert auto locksmith to repair your key.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Rather than using a regular key, this type of key has an electronic chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to do standard tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and starting the engine with the press of one button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.
They function through LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the inside electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.
Smart keys can present a risk to safety. If you're too far away from your vehicle there's a chance that someone can take the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by simply placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to reduce the risk.
The kind of vehicle you drive and the model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at less money and provide better service than dealerships.