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.
Based on the type of key, costs vary. Certain types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There is an excellent chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to start the car. These are easy 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 gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with remote controls instead of being put into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools for doing so however they cost more than traditional keys.
Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the right key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.
If you have trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This part will cost more than a standard key, but it is worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will aid in releasing the lock wafers that might have been slightly damaged by frequent use. However, it is important to note that this is not always successful and may cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car has traditional keys and lock, you'll pay less to replace it. They are made of 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 function with your vehicle.
If you're driving a brand newer car, your key could include a transponder chip within it to 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. g28carkeys.co.uk can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This means that if anyone takes the key away the car won't be able to start.
Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built in the 1990s, since they're a simple way to make your car more safe from theft and provide you with additional convenience.
If you own an old key fob that requires replacing you should be prepared to spend more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealers will charge an additional fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual for the exact sequence of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 to $100.
Switchblade Key
The car key with a switchblade may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a unique key that folds up into the fob. This type of key can be available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or even online but it's more than traditional keys.
Key fobs control the functions of your key and will send a signal when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will recognize the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read-code. Professional car locksmiths are able to modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost.
Simple, inexpensive fobs without an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with an integrated chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features included.
A key fob equipped with a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that if the key fob itself isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. In addition certain types of keys may include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and will make it difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely to be found on vehicles built in the past 20 years. The chip in these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine if it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works you won't be able to start your vehicle.
If you're thinking of purchasing an updated transponder key, you should know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. They are often the only one that can create the specific type of key that your car requires. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.
Transponder keys are an important security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology prevents car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.
If you have a transponder key you might notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear out. The grooves inside the lock move the pins to a position where your car can start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're having these issues you should contact an auto locksmith to repair your keys.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys take technology to the next level. Rather than using a regular key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you do standard tasks such as opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine at just the push of a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.
These smart keys work by having the LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the inside electronics that recognize it as an authorized smart key. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and begins its engine.
Smart keys could pose a safety risk. If you're too far away from your car there's a chance that someone can take the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.
The model year and the type of vehicle you use can influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older models have lower replacement keys than newer models. Certain models may require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob in order to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost, call an area Pop-A-Lock branch to get a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at a lower price and can often provide superior service than the dealership.