How Much does a new ignition switch require a new key an ignition key replacement cost (see)?

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

Costs vary based on type. Certain kinds of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys that include mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There's the possibility 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 placed in the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. These keys are easy to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional lock, it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the early 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with an electronic remote, rather than being inserted into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools. However they are more expensive than the standard key.

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

If you've experienced problems getting your car to start it might be a sign of an ignition switch that is not working properly. This part will cost more than a standard key, but it is worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be placed in Try gently jiggling the key. This could help to release the lock wafers, which could have been damaged due to frequent use. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes result in further damage.

Remote Key

You'll pay less for the replacement key if your vehicle has a traditional key. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to start it. They 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 included in the keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is used and able to start your engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit every time they are used. This means that if anyone steals the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock and even open your car without having to insert them into the ignition. These are more common for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to secure your car from theft, and also give you more convenience.

You'll need to pay more for require replacing the keyfob since it requires additional programming. Most dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob however, you can save cash by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounds like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds into the fob when it is not in use. This type of key can be purchased at a locksmith, auto dealer or even online but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and send a signal when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are present in many modern vehicles. They transmit an unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional car locksmiths are able to reprogram your chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Simple, inexpensive fobs without an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets between $25 and $100. A key fob replacement with a chip in could cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade can cost between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries 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 hinder unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This stops thieves from trying to force your ignition and key replacement cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key ignition replacement.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely be found on vehicles built in the last 20 years. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This helps prevent the theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine when it matches. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle if you don't have the transponder key.

If you're considering buying a new transponder key, you should know that the car ignition replacement dealership will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're often the only one in town that can produce the specific kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, as car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring for vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology can help prevent car theft because it makes hot-wiring useless.

If you own a transponder key you might observe that the grooves on the metal portion of your key are beginning to wear out. The grooves inside the lock are able to move the pins into a position that allows your car is able to start. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your car. If you're having these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to replace your keys.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. The fob instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors, and activating the car with a press of a button. These keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.

These smart keys work through they have LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you pull the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics which recognize it as an authentic smart key. Once recognized, the car removes its immobilizer, and then starts the engine.

Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're not far from your vehicle, someone could take the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The model of car you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. In general older models are more likely to have cheaper key replacements than newer ones. Additionally, certain models might require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob to enable 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 anxious about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can offer an alternative at a lower price and can often provide superior service than the dealership.