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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key is usually made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Costs differ based on the kind of key. Certain kinds of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s there is a good chance that you still have a mechanical key. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to turn the car on. They are easy to copy and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic keys, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for a cost of less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with an electronic remote, rather than being put into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the normal key.

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

If you've been experiencing trouble getting your car to start, it could be a sign of an ignition switch that is not working properly. This component will cost more than a standard one, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help release the lock wafers that might be a little damaged by frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key, you can expect to pay less for replacing it. These keys have a metal shaft that's inserted in the ignition and turned to turn the engine. They can be found 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 car, your key could contain a transponder chip inside it to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver in 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 referred to as rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they're used. This ensures that even if someone manages to get the key and enter your car, it won't be capable of starting.

Key fobs work as a remote control, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open your car without having to insert them into the ignition. These are more common for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're a great method to secure your car from theft, and give you more convenience.

You will have to pay more for need to replace the keyfob since it requires extra programming. Most dealerships charge a fee to program a new key fob, but you can save some money by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob will cost 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 the fob. This kind of key is available from an auto dealer, or online however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your keys and send a signal when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will detect the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and provide a unique, only-your-car read code. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is lost or damaged.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that have no integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of a new batteries and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally, some of these types of keys may include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent unauthorized use when placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and immobilizer of the vehicle. This stops thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and 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 uses a transponder key. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This can help prevent the theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. You will not be able to start your car ignition switch repair without an transponder key.

It is important to know that a car dealer will charge you a fee if you want to get a new transponder. They are usually the only people in town who can make the specific type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring useless.

If you own a transponder key you may observe that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear down. The grooves on the lock are able to move the pins to a position where your car can start. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you are experiencing these issues then it's time to call an auto locksmith to repair your keys.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. The fob instead of being the standard key, has a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and doors and activating the car with a pressing of a button. Although they are convenient, these keys come at a higher price than transponder keys or traditional keys because of their integrated technology.

To work the smart keys work, they have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. They activate when you turn the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that identify the smart key as valid. When the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and begins its engine.

Smart keys can present a risk to safety. If you're too far away from your car it is possible for someone to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.

The model of car you drive and its model year can impact the cost of replacement keys. As a general rule, older models tend to have more expensive replacement keys than the newer models. Some models may also require the use of a keyless system integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about much your replacement will cost, call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.