This Week's Top Stories About Ignition Key Replacement Cost
How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.
Costs vary based on type. Some car keys are more affordable to replace than others. These are the various kinds of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob, switchblade, and transponder.
Mechanical Key
There is a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your car was built prior to the '90s. These basic keys are made of steel with a head that can be put into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic key, an auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for a cost of less than $50.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control rather than needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the normal key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer on the vehicle and ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.
If you have difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. Replacing this component will probably cost more than a standard key replacement however the security that comes from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the investment.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be put in Try gently jiggling the key. This can aid in releasing the lock wafers which may have been slightly damaged by frequent use. lost ignition key isn't always efficient and may cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with a traditional key, you can expect to pay less for replacing it. They are made of metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to start it. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special software to work with your car.
Transponder chips are often included in the keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures that only a genuine and functioning key can be inserted to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send an updated signal each time they are used. This means that if anyone takes the key away the car won't be able to start.
Key fobs are essentially an electronic remote control that lets you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well to 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 in the 1990s, since they're an easy way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and provide you with additional convenience.
If you own a key fob that needs replacement you should be prepared to spend more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealerships will charge the cost of programming the new key fob, however you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounded like the bladed weapon used for parking lot self-defense however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key can be available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or even online however it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs regulate the functions of your key and send signals when they are within reach. The car's computer, or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are present in most modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is lost or damaged.
Simple, inexpensive fobs without an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob with a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.
A key fob that incorporates an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, meaning that when the key fob isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. In addition certain types of keys may include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that hinder unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will prevent thieves from forcing your ignition cylinder to open, and also makes it difficult for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
If your car was made in the last two decades, it's likely that it uses a transponder key. They transmit a number when they are inserted into the ignition. This helps prevent the theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine in the event that it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works it will be impossible to start your car.
It is important to know that a car dealer will charge a higher price if you want to get an updated transponder. They are usually the only ones in town who can cut the exact type of key your car requires. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.
Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves started using a technology called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective.
You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving little pins inside the lock into a position that allows your car to begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are experiencing these problems you should contact an auto locksmith in order to repair your keys.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys bring technology to the next level. This fob, instead of using a standard key, contains an electronic device that communicates with 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 ease of use they are a higher price than transponder keys that are traditional because of the integrated technology.
The smart keys function by having the LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the interior electronics, which identify it as a valid smart key. Once it is recognized, the car removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.
Smart keys could pose a safety 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 in a compatible ignition. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to minimize this risk.
The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can also influence the cost of a replacement key. As a general rule older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than newer ones. 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 worried about how the replacement cost will be contact a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to provide an upgrade at a lower cost and usually provide superior service than the dealership.