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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost? The loss of your car keys can be a major hassle. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith. Costs vary depending on the type. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder. Mechanical Key If your car was constructed before the 1990s, there is a high possibility that you still have mechanical keys. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to turn the car on. They are easy to copy and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic key An auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it for less than $50. Key fobs were popular in the early 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance using a remote controller instead of being put into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost more than a traditional key. Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the right key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are harder to duplicate and generally cost more to have cut and programmed. If you've had trouble getting your car to start, it could be a sign of an issue with the ignition switch. This component will cost more than a standard key but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your car is secure. If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged over time from frequent use. This method isn't always successful and may result in further damage. Remote Key If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key, you can expect to pay less to replace it. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming to function with your vehicle. If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, the key might contain a transponder chip inside it to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key can be inserted to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This means that even if someone takes the key away and your car doesn't start. Key fobs function as a remote control, allowing you to unlock, lock, and open your car without having to insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars manufactured after the 90s, as they're an easy way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and to provide you with additional convenience. You'll have to pay more when you require replacing the keyfob since it requires additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge a fee to program the new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual for specific sequences of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more. Switchblade Key The switchblade key sounds as if it's the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when it is not in use. This kind of key is available from an auto dealer, or on the internet, but it will cost more than traditional keys. Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and transmit a signal when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths for cars can modify your key and chip when they become damaged or lost. Keys that are traditional can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that do not have an integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob with a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features included. A key fob with an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, meaning that if the key fob itself isn't damaged, you can replace the blade and shank. Additionally to that, certain kinds of keys come with VATS or PASS Key circuit. G28 Car Keys have resistors that prevent misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and it will also make it difficult for them to duplicate the key. Transponder Key Transponder keys can be used on cars made in the last 20 years. The chip on these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. Without a functioning transponder key it will be impossible to start your vehicle. If you're considering buying a new transponder key you need to know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. They are often the only ones in town that can create the exact type of key your car requires. A locksmith, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost. Transponder keys were introduced as an extra measure of security in the 1980s, as car thieves began using a technique known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology helps prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring useless. If you own a transponder key you may observe that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear out. The grooves inside the lock move the pins to a position where your car can begin. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing these issues, it's time to call a professional auto locksmith to replace your key. Smart Key Key Smart keys take technology one step further. The key instead of an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the press of a button. Despite their ease of use they are a higher price than transponder keys that are traditional due to their integrated technology. To work, these smart keys have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you turn a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as an authorized smart key. When the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine. Smart keys can be a security risk. If you're far from your car it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal and begin your car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk. The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive can influence the cost of replacing a key. In general, older cars have lower replacement keys than modern models. Certain models may require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're concerned about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement at a lower cost and offer better service than dealerships.