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 an auto dealership or a locksmith.
Based on the type of key, costs vary. Certain kinds of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder.
Mechanical Key
There is a good chance that you have a classic mechanical key if your vehicle was manufactured before the '90s. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is inserted in the ignition, and then turned to turn the car on. These keys are easy to copy and do not 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 gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance using an electronic remote instead of being inserted into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so however they cost a bit more than a traditional key.
Transponder keys, first 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 are more difficult to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.
If you're 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 is worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be inserted into the ignition, gently move the key. This could aid in releasing the lock wafers that might have been slightly damaged by frequent use. It is important to note that this is not always successful and can sometimes cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car has traditional keys and lock, you'll pay less for replacing it. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start the vehicle. These keys 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 the keys of modern vehicles to prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures only a valid and working key can be used to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they're used, so that even if someone does manage to take the key and then open your car, it won't able to start.
Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock and even open your car without having to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in vehicles made after the 90s, as they're a convenient way to make your car more secure from theft and give you additional convenience.
You'll have to pay more when you have to replace the keyfob since it requires extra programming. The majority of dealers will charge a fee to program the new key fob, however you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to a specific sequence of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50 and $100.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade car key might appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds down into a fob. This type of key can be available from an auto dealer, or even online however it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs manage the functions of your key and transmit signals when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will detect the signal and permit the engine to start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are incorporated into most modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths can modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost.
Traditional keys can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and the manufacturer.
A key fob that has a switchblade costs between $200 and $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, some of these types of keys may include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This deters thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys can be used on cars made in the last 20 years. The chip on these keys prevents vehicle theft by sending the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by your car's computer and the engine starts when the code is found to match. If you don't have a transponder key that works you won't be able to start your vehicle.
Be aware that a car dealer will charge a higher price when you're looking to purchase an updated transponder. They are often the only ones in town who can cut the specific type of key that your car requires. A locksmith, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.
Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s when car thieves started using a method called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology can help prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring ineffective.
You may be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves inside the lock are able to move the pins to a point where your car can begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing issues like this it's time to contact an expert auto locksmith to replace your key.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys take technology a step further. The key instead of being a standard key, contains a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors and activating the car with a push a button. Despite their convenience however, these keys are more expensive than traditional or transponder keys because of their integrated technology.
To function the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the interior electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once the car is identified, it disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.
car ignition key replacement can be a security risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your vehicle, an individual could pick up the low frequency signal and start your car by inserting it into a compatible ignition. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to reduce this risk.
The kind of vehicle you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models have lower replacement keys than newer models. Some models might also require an electronic keypad that's connected to the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. Call a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at a lower cost and offer better service than dealerships.