How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a major headache. A replacement key is usually found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Costs differ based on the type. Certain keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob as well as transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There is a good chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These keys are simple and have a metal head that is placed in the ignition and then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and don't have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic key An auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for the price of less than $50.
Key fobs were popular in the early 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with a remote controller instead of being placed into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a normal key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and generally cost more to cut and programmed.
If you have difficulties starting your car it could be due to a faulty switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a typical key replacement however the security that comes from knowing that your car is safe makes it worth the cost.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be put into the ignition, gently move the key. This could assist in releasing the lock wafers that may have been slightly damaged by frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key that is a traditional key, you will pay less for replacing it. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to turn it on to start it. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, your key may have a transponder chip in it to prevent theft. The chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and is able to turn on your engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used, so that even if someone does manage to steal the key and open your car, it won't be able to start.
Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock, and open your car without having to put it in 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 a key fob that needs replacement you should be prepared to spend more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealers will charge an additional fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for specific sequences of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $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 really an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when it is not being used. This kind of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or online but it's more than traditional keys.
Key fobs control the functions of your keys and will send signals when they are within range. The car's computer or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read code. Professional car locksmiths are able to reprogram your chip and key when they become damaged or lost.
Traditional keys can still be substituted with cheap, simple fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on features and the manufacturer.
A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. In addition certain types of keys come with a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and it will also make it difficult for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
If your car was manufactured in the last two decades, chances are it is equipped with a transponder. The chip in these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The car's computer is able to check the code and start the engine when it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works it will be impossible to start your vehicle.
Be aware that car dealers will charge a higher price when you're looking to purchase a new transponder. This is because they're usually the only one in town that can make the kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for 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. 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 then start it. This technology helps prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring ineffective.
If you have a transponder key you might observe that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are beginning to wear down. The grooves on the lock move the pins to a position where your car is able to 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 car. If car ignition cylinder replacement experiencing these issues you should contact an auto locksmith in order to repair your keys.
Smart Key
Smart keys bring technology to the next level. The key instead of being a standard key, contains an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as opening the car with the pressing of a button. Despite their ease of use they are an additional cost than transponder keys or traditional keys because of the integrated technology.
They function by having LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as a valid smart key. Once recognized, the car removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.
Smart keys could pose a safety risk. If you're not far from your car it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to reduce this risk.
The kind of car you drive and its model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. As a rule older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than the newer models. Some models may also require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about much your replacement will cost you can call an area Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to offer a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.