10 Tell-Tale Warning Signs You Should Know To Get A New Ignition Key Replacement Cost How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car key can be a major hassle. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Based on the type of key, costs depend on the type of key, costs can vary. Certain types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that are available including mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the 1990s, there is a high chance that you still have a mechanical key. These keys come with a metal head that is inserted in the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic keys an auto locksmith could easily cut the key and program it for a cost of less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to operate from a distance with a remote controller, rather than being put into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to accomplish this however they cost more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer and ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program.

If you're having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This component will cost more than a standard key, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your vehicle is secure.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or cannot be put in by gently turning the key. This could help release the lock wafers which may have been damaged due to frequent usage. However, it is important to note that this approach isn't always effective and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to spend less on a replacement key if you have a traditional key. car ignition locked are made of a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to start it. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special programming to function with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer car, your key could include a transponder chip within it to in preventing theft. These chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is in use and is able to turn on your engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send an updated signal each time they are used. This ensures that even if someone steals the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs work as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without having to put it in the ignition. They are more popular on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your car from theft, and also give you more convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacing be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge an additional fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe the exact sequence of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 and $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's the bladed weapon used to defend yourself in the parking lot, but this is just an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when it is not being used. This kind of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or even online, but it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and send an alert 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 modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read code. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob that has a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features offered by.

A key fob with a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of a new batteries and programming. If the key fob is not damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Some keys also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that make it impossible for unauthorized use to be they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the car. This deters thieves from attempting to use force on your ignition cylinder, and makes it more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key


Transponder keys are likely to be used on cars manufactured within the past 20 years. The chip inside keys can help prevent theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by the computer in your car, and the engine will start when the code is found to match. Without a functioning transponder key it will be impossible to start your vehicle.

If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key, you should know that the dealership for your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're usually the only one in town that can produce the specific type of key that your car needs. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key at a only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves started using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating the small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which 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 transponder keys, you may notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear down. The grooves inside the lock allow the pins to move to a point where your car is able to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues, it's time to call a professional auto locksmith to repair your key.

Smart Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. The key instead of the standard key, has a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and doors, and activating the car with a pressing of a button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are an additional cost than transponder keys that are traditional due to their integrated technology.

These smart keys work by using they have LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the inside electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far from your vehicle, someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and begin your car by putting it in an ignition that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The model of vehicle you drive and the model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. As a rule older cars tend to have cheaper key replacements than the newer models. Some models may also require the use of a keyless system integrated with the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than a dealership.