An In-Depth Look Into The Future: What Will The Ignition Key Replacement Cost Industry Look Like In 10 Years? How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car key can be a major hassle. A replacement key is typically made by scheduling an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith.

Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain kinds of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys such as mechanical, remote keys fob, switchblade, and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is placed in the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic lock an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it at the price of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so, although they do cost more than a traditional key.

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 correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.

If you've been experiencing trouble getting your car to start it might be a sign of an ignition switch that is not working properly. Replacing this component is likely to cost more than a standard key replacement but the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your vehicle is safe is worth the expense.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or cannot be put in, try gently jiggling the key. This can help free the lock wafers that could have been damaged due to frequent use. However, it's important to remember that this is not always successful and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

You'll spend less on an alternative key if your car has an old-fashioned key. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to begin it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require any special programming to work with your vehicle.

Transponder chips are commonly found in the keys of modern vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is inserted and able to start your engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, which send an entirely different signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if someone does manage to take the key and then open your car, it won't capable of starting.

Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock and even open your car without the need to put it in the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built after the '90s, as they're a simple method to make your vehicle more safe from theft and provide you with additional convenience.

You will have to pay more if you have to replace a keyfob because it requires extra programming. Most dealerships will charge a fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual for a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually a unique key that folds into a fob. This type of key can be bought at a locksmith, auto dealer, or even online, but the cost will be more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of the key and send signals to your car when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer within the car will be able to recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob with an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and the programming. The parts can typically be purchased separately, so if the key fob itself isn't harmed you can just replace the shank and blade. Some of these keys may also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips have resistors that prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will prevent thieves from forcing the ignition cylinder and will make it more difficult for them copy the key.

car ignition replacement are likely be found on vehicles made in the past 20 years. The chip on these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting 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 car.

It is important to know that a car dealer will charge you a fee for you to purchase an updated transponder. They are often the only people in town that can create the specific type of key your car requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs. These can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology helps prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring useless.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning wear out. The grooves inside the lock allow the pins to move to a point where your car can begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your dashboard 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 to replace your keys.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys bring technology to the next level. This fob, instead of using the standard key, has a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the push a button. Despite their ease of use, these keys come at a higher price than transponder keys that are traditional due to their integrated technology.

These smart keys work through 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 from the door and body to the inside electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.

However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far away from your car, someone could be able to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by inserting it into a compatible ignition. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce the risk.


The model year and type of vehicle you drive affect the cost of a replacement key. In general older cars tend to have more expensive replacement keys than newer ones. Some models may also require an electronic keypad that's connected to the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about much your replacement will cost you can call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to get a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths can offer an alternative at a lower price and usually provide superior service than the dealership.