How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Depending on the kind of key, prices depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four types of Ignition Key Won't Turn keys that include mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the 1990s there is a good chance that you still have an electronic key. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is inserted in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic lock An auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for the price of less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated by an electronic remote, rather than being inserted into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost a little more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program.

If you are having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This component will cost more than a standard key, however, it's worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be put in Try gently jiggling the key. This could aid in releasing the lock wafers that might have been damaged by frequent use. However, it's important to note that this method isn't always successful and can sometimes cause more damage.

Remote Key

You'll spend less on a replacement key if your vehicle has a traditional key. They have a shaft that's inserted in the ignition and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to function with your vehicle.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, the key might have a transponder chip in it to prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key is used to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are called rolling keys, that send the same signal each time they're used, so that even if someone manages to take the key and then open your car, it won't able to start.

Key fobs are basically an electronic remote control that lets you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without the need to insert it into the ignition. They are more popular for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

If you have keys that need replacement, be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob but you can save some money by following your owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob will cost between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key can be available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or on the internet but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the functions of keys 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 locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip if damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip in could cost up to $500, depending on features and manufacturer.

A key fob with the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, including the price of a new battery and programming. The parts can typically be purchased separately, meaning that if the key itself isn't damaged, you can replace the blade and shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys may include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent unauthorized use when placed in the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the car. This deters thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was made in the past two decades, it's likely that it is equipped with a transponder. These keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps to prevent theft of your vehicle. The car's computer 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 thinking about getting a new transponder key, you need to know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a fee for the service. This is due to the fact that they're the only shop in town that can make the type of key that your car needs. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that came into play when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring useless.

You may notice that the grooves of your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. The grooves on the lock are able to move the pins into a position that allows your car can begin. Also, 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, it's time to call a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at just the push of one button. Despite their ease of use, these keys come at an additional cost than transponder keys or traditional keys because of the integrated technology.

These smart keys work through the LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the inside electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're too far away from your car there's a chance that someone can take the low-frequency signal and start your car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The type of car you drive and the model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than the newer 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. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're anxious about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at a lower price and can often provide superior service than the dealership.