How Much does a new ignition switch require a new key an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a huge hassle. A replacement key is typically obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.

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

Mechanical Key

There is a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These simple keys have a metal head that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to copy and do not contain electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for less than $50.

Key fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance with an electronic remote instead of being inserted into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and Ignition Key Replacement Cost don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the regular key.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.

If you have difficulties starting your car it could be due to a faulty switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than a standard key replacement but the security that comes from knowing that your vehicle is secure makes it worth the investment.

If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will aid in releasing the lock wafers which may be a little damaged from frequent use. It is important to remember that this approach isn't always successful and can sometimes cause more damage.

Remote Key

You'll spend less on the replacement key if you have an old-fashioned key. The keys are made of metal key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and turned to turn the engine. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to work with your car.

If you're driving a more modern vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to to prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures that only a genuine and functioning key is used to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send an updated signal each time they are used. This means that if anyone steals the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs work as remote controls, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without the need to put it in the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured after the '90s, as they're a convenient way to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you added convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacement, be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealers charge a fee to program the new key fob, but you can save some cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob itself could cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds as if it's an armed weapon with blades for parking lot self-defense however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not being used. This type of key is available from a locksmith, an auto dealer, or online but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the key's functions and transmit 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 have been embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional locksmiths for cars can change the chip and key if they become damaged or lost.

Keys that are traditional can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features included.

A key fob with a switchblade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys come with VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips have resistors that make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the vehicle. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder to open, and will make it difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be used on vehicles that were made in the past 20 years. The chip on these keys prevents vehicle theft by sending a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The car ignition switch repair's computer checks the code and starts the engine when it matches. Without a working transponder key, you won't be able to start your car.

It is important to know that car dealers will charge a higher price for you to purchase a new transponder. They are usually the only ones in town who can cut the specific type of key that your car requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, when 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 into their key fobs that can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology can help prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring useless.

You might observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is because the grooves move tiny pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your car's dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are having these issues you should contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology to the next level. Instead of using a standard key, this one has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine with just the push of the button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.

The smart keys function by using LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels from the door and body to the interior electronics that recognize the smart key as valid. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and starts its engine.

Smart keys can present a risk to safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far from your vehicle, someone could be able to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by inserting it into an ignition that is compatible with. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10 centimeters to limit this risk.

The model year and the type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older models have lower replacement keys than newer models. Some models also require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're concerned about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement for cheaper and provide better service than dealerships.