How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car key can be a major hassle. A replacement key can usually be found by making an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith.

Costs differ based on the kind of key. Certain car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your G28 Car Keys was built before the 1990s there is a good possibility that you still have a mechanical key. These keys are simple and come with a metal head that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the car. They are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic keys An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at a cost of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of having to insert the key into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate and do not require any special tools. However, they cost more than a regular key.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are equipped 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 are more difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.

If you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This part will cost you more than a standard key but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your car is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or isn't able to be put in, try gently jiggling the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which may have become slightly damaged due to frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has a traditional key that is a traditional key, you will spend less money to replace it. They have a shaft that's inserted in the ignition lock repair near me and turned to start your vehicle. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming to work with your car.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a valid and working key can be used to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which send the same signal each time they're used so that even if someone manages to get the key and enter your vehicle, it won't be able to start.

Key fobs are basically an electronic remote control that lets you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured after the 90s, as they're an easy method to make your vehicle more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

If you own a key fob that needs replacing be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealerships charge a fee for programming the new key fob, however, you can save cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself could cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's an armed weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not being used. This type of key is available at a locksmith, auto dealer or even on the internet but the cost will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your key and send an alert when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer within the car will detect the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip can 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. A key fob replacement that has a chip built in can cost up to $500, based on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob that has a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and programming. If the key fob is not damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally 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 placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the car. This stops thieves from attempting to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the past two decades, chances are it has a transponder key. These keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine when it matches. You won't be able to start your vehicle if you don't have an transponder key.

Be aware that car dealers will charge you a fee if you want to get an updated transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only one in town that can make the type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand, can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s when car thieves started using a method called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring ineffective.

If you own transponder keys you may notice that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear out. The grooves on the lock move the pins into a position that allows your car can begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues it's time to contact a professional auto locksmith to change your key.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology a step further. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has an electronic chip that communicates with your car, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at the click of the button. Despite their convenience however, these keys are more expensive than transponder keys or traditional keys because of the integrated technology.

To function the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. They activate when you turn the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

Smart keys could be a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far from your vehicle, an individual could pick up the low-frequency signal and start your car by inserting it into an ignition that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to mitigate this risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can influence the cost of a replacement key. As a rule older cars tend to have lower key replacements than newer ones. Additionally, certain models might require an entry system that's keyless and integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about the replacement cost will be, call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to going to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at a lower price and usually provide better service than the dealership.