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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost? Losing your car keys can be a major headache. A replacement key is typically obtained by making an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith. 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 as well as transponder and switchblade. Mechanical Key If your car was constructed before the year 1990 There is a good chance that you still have a mechanical key. These simple keys are metal with a head that is put into the ignition and turned to start the car. They are easy to copy and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at less than $50. Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to operate from a distance using remote controls instead of being placed into the ignition. They 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 come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer on the vehicle to ensure that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and they cost more to cut and program. If you are having trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. Having this part replaced is likely to cost more than a typical key replacement however the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe makes it worth the cost. If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be placed into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will aid in releasing the lock wafers that may be a little damaged due to frequent usage. This method isn't always efficient and may result in further damage. Remote Key If your car is equipped with a traditional key that is a traditional key, you will pay less for replacing it. The keys are made of metal shaft that's inserted in the ignition and then turned to turn the engine. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't require any special programming to work with your car. Transponder chips are commonly found in keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. The 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. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send an updated signal each time they are used. This means that if someone takes the key away, your car won't start. Key fobs work as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock and even open your car without having to insert them into the ignition. These are also more common in cars manufactured after the 90s, as they're a simple way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and give you additional convenience. If you own an old key fob that requires replacing, be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob, however, you can save money by following the owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob is priced between $50-$100. Switchblade Key The switchblade key sounds like a bladed weapon for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when not in use. This kind of key can be purchased at a locksmith, auto dealer, or even online however the price will be more than traditional keys. Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the key's functions and transmit signals to your car when it is within range. The car's computer or immobilizer 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 a unique code that only your car can read. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is damaged or lost. Keys that are traditional can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs with no integrated chip. They are usually available at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A replacement key fob with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on features and the manufacturer. A key fob with a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, including the cost of a new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged you can replace the blade or shank. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This prevents thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key. Transponder Key If your car was built in the past two decades, it's likely that it uses a transponder key. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This helps prevent theft of your vehicle. The car's computer is able to check the code and start the engine if it matches. You won't be able to start your car without a transponder key. If you're considering buying a new transponder key, you must be aware that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. click the next webpage is due to the fact that they're the only shop in town that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price. Transponder keys are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a technique called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car to start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective. If you have transponder keys, you may notice that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues, it's time to call an auto locksmith professional to replace your key. Smart Key Smart keys take technology to the next level. Rather than using a regular key, this one has a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to do standard tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine at just the push of the button. Despite their convenience, these keys come at an additional cost than traditional or transponder keys due to their integrated technology. These smart keys work by having the LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the interior electronics which recognize the smart key as valid. Once the smart key has been recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer, and then starts its engine. Smart keys can pose a safety risk. If you're too far away from your vehicle there's a chance that someone can intercept the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by simply placing it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk. The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can also influence the cost of a replacement key. As a general rule older cars tend to have more expensive replacement keys than those with more modern features. Certain models may require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement for cheaper and provide superior service than a dealership.