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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost? The loss of your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key can usually be obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer. Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain types of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys: mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder. Mechanical Key If your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s there is a good possibility that you still have a mechanical key. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start the car. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic key an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it for the price of less than $50. Key fobs gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance with remote controls instead of being placed into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so however they cost more than a traditional key. Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the right key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program. If you are having difficulties starting your car it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This component will cost more than a standard key, however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your car is secure. If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be placed in Try gently jiggling the key. This can help free the lock wafers that might have gotten damaged due to frequent use. It is important to keep in mind that this is not always successful and can sometimes cause further damage. Remote Key You can expect to pay less for the replacement key if your vehicle has an old-fashioned key. They have a key shaft that's inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming to function with your vehicle. Transponder chips are commonly found in the keys of modern vehicles to prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key is used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit an updated signal each time they are used. This ensures that if anyone steals the key, your car won't start. Key fobs are essentially remote controls that allow you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as well being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. They are more prevalent on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great method to protect your car from theft and provide you more convenience. If you have an old key fob that requires replacing, be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. Most dealerships charge a fee for programming a new key fob, however, you can save money by following your owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50 and $100. Switchblade Key The switchblade key sounds as if it's a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but this is just an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not in use. This kind of key can be purchased at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer, or even online, but the cost will be higher than traditional keys. Key fobs regulate the functions of your key and transmit a signal when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer within the car will be able to recognize the signal, and allow the engine start. Transponder chips, in use since 1995, are incorporated into many modern vehicles. They transmit an exclusive code that only your car is able to read. Professional locksmiths can modify your key and chip if they become damaged or lost. Traditional keys can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can range from $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and the features that are included. A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of new batteries and the programming. If mobile ignition lock repair services is not damaged you can replace the blade or shank. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys come with a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that stop unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This deters thieves from attempting to force 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 last two decades, it's likely it uses a transponder key. They transmit a number when you insert them into the ignition. This helps prevent vehicle theft. 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. It is important to know that a car dealer will charge a higher price when you're looking to purchase a new transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only place who can create the kind of key your car needs. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for less than the cost. Transponder keys are an important security 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 tiny RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car to start it. This technology helps prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring obsolete. If you own transponder keys you may be noticing that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear down. This is because the grooves shift little pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to start up. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on your dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're having these issues you should contact an auto locksmith in order to change your keys. Smart Key A smart key takes technology a step further. Instead of using a standard key, this type of key has a computer chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform standard tasks like unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine with the press of one button. Although they are convenient they are an additional cost than transponder keys or traditional keys due to their integrated technology. The smart keys function by using LF (low-frequency) antennas that transmit inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the interior electronics that recognize it as a valid smart key. Once recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine. Smart keys could pose a safety risk. If you're too far away from your vehicle, someone could detect the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce this 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 the newer models. Certain models may require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to heading to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths can offer an alternative at a lower cost and often offer superior service than the dealership.