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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major headache. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.

Based on the type of key, costs vary. Some car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of mobile ignition lock repair services keys that are available including mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There is a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if the car was built prior to the '90s. These simple keys have a metal head that is inserted in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. They are simple to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic keys An auto ignition key replacement locksmith ignition replacement cost can easily cut the key and program it for the price of less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the '90s and are designed to be operated by remote controls instead of being placed into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a normal key.

Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you have difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This part will cost you more than a standard key, however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be inserted by gently turning the key. This could help release the lock wafers that may be a little damaged due to frequent usage. However, it is important to note that this is not always successful and may cause more damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for an alternative key if your car has traditional keys. They are made of metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to work with your car.

Transponder chips are typically included in the keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and is able to turn on your engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if a person manages to take the key and then open your car, it won't be able to start.

Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock, and open your car without the need to put it in the ignition. They are more prevalent on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great method to secure your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacement, be prepared to pay more for it because they require additional programming. Most dealers will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for a specific 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 is actually a unique key that folds up into a fob. 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 key and send signals when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer within the car will recognize the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are embedded in many modern vehicles. They transmit an unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip into it can cost as high as $500, based on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob with a switchblade costs 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. Some keys also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that prevent unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This prevents thieves from trying to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was built in the past two decades, it's likely it is equipped with a transponder. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition lock repair. This can help prevent vehicle theft. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine starts when the code matches. Without a functioning transponder key you won't be able to start your vehicle.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key, you must be aware that the car dealership will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're often the only shop in town who can create the type of key your car needs. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that came into play when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs. These can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology helps prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring obsolete.

If you have a transponder key you may observe that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear down. This is due to the grooves moving little pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to begin. You'll also be able to see 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 issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to replace your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Rather than using a regular key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and starting the engine with the press of a button. Despite their convenience they are an additional cost than traditional or transponder keys because of their integrated technology.

They function through they have LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior that recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and begins its engine.

Smart keys could be a security risk. If you're far from your vehicle it is possible for someone to take the low-frequency signal and start your car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce this risk.

The type of car you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Also, some models may require a keyless entry system that's connected to the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about how much your replacement will cost you can call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to get an estimate prior to heading to the dealership. Our locksmiths can offer an alternative at a lower cost and often offer superior service than the dealership.