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

Losing your car keys could be a major headache. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith.

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

Mechanical Key

If your car was manufactured before the 1990s There is a good chance that you still have mechanical keys. These basic keys are made of steel with a head that can be placed in the ignition and turned to turn the car on. They are simple to copy and do not contain electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and cost less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the early 1990s and are designed to be operated by an electronic remote, rather than being inserted into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so, although they do cost more than a traditional key.

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the right key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and typically cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you're having difficulties starting your car it could be due to a faulty switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than a typical key replacement however the security that comes from knowing that your car is safe makes it worth the expense.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be inserted into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can help free the lock wafers, which may have become slightly damaged over time from frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

You'll spend less on an alternative key if your vehicle has traditional keys. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to turn it on to start it. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require any special programming to work with your car.

Transponder chips are often 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 genuine key is used and is able to start the engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which send a different signal every time they're used, so that even if someone manages to steal the key and open your vehicle, it won't be capable of starting.

Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock and even open your car without the need to insert it into the ignition. They are more popular on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your car from theft and provide you more convenience.

You'll need to pay more if you have to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealerships charge a fee for programming a new key fob, but you can save some cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob itself could cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a novel key that folds down into a fob. This type of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or on the internet however it will cost more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the functions of keys and send an alert to your vehicle when they are within reach. The car's computer, or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are embedded in the majority of modern vehicles and transmit an unique code that only your car can read. G28 Car Keys for cars can reprogram your key and chip if damaged or lost.

Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. You can usually find these at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built into it can cost as high as $500, depending on features and the manufacturer.

A key fob that has the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally certain types of keys can include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This stops thieves from attempting 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 made in the last two decades, it's likely that it has a transponder key. The keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps to prevent the theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car is able to check the code and start the engine if it matches. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle if you don't have a transponder key.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key you should know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a fee for the service. They are often the only people in town who can make the specific type of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are a security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a method called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs. These can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent theft of cars by making hot-wiring ineffective.

You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car to start up. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing any of these issues you should contact an expert auto locksmith to repair your key.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. The fob instead of a standard key, contains a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the press of a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder keys due to the integrated technology.

To work, these smart keys have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. These antennas are activated when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the interior 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 can be a security risk. If you're far from your vehicle, someone could detect the low-frequency signal and start your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.

The model of vehicle you drive and the model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at a lower cost and often offer superior service than the dealership.