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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 an auto dealership or a locksmith. Depending on the type of key, prices differ based on the type of key. Certain types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the various types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob, switchblade, and transponder. Mechanical Key If your car was manufactured before the year 1990 there is a good possibility that you still have a mechanical key. These keys are made of metal with a head that can be put into the ignition and then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic key an auto locksmith could easily cut the key and program it for less than $50. In the 1990s, key fobs were popular. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so, although they do cost a bit more than traditional keys. Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle, ensuring that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program. If you've been experiencing trouble when your car starts it may be due to an issue with the ignition switch. This part will cost you more than a standard key, however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe. If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or cannot be inserted, try gently jiggling the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which might have gotten damaged over time from frequent use. However, it is important to note that this method isn't always effective and may cause more damage. Remote Key You'll pay less for a replacement key if your car has a traditional key. These keys feature a metal shaft that is placed into the ignition of the vehicle and then turned to start it. 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 typically found in keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. These chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key is used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit every time they are used. This means that even if someone takes the key away, your car won't start. Key fobs function as remote controls, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your car without having to insert it into the ignition. These are more common on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great way to secure your car from theft and provide you more convenience. If you own keys that need replacing you should be prepared to spend more because they require extra programming. Most dealerships charge a fee for programming the new key fob, but 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 sounded like a bladed weapon for self-defense in parking lots however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when not being used. This type of key is available from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online but the cost will be more than traditional keys. Key fobs regulate the functions of your keys and send signals when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will detect the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are embedded in the majority of modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key if lost or damaged. Traditional keys can be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs that do not have an integrated chip. They are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. A key fob replacement that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, based on the features and the manufacturer. A key fob with a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of a new batteries and programming. The parts can typically be bought separately, so if the key fob itself isn't harmed you can just replace the shank and blade. Additionally certain types of keys can include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that prevent unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. 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 manufactured within the last 20 years. The chip in these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by the computer in your car, and the engine is started if the code matches. You will not be able to start your car without a transponder key. If you're thinking of purchasing a new transponder key, you should know that the dealership for your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're often the only one in town that can make the kind of key your car needs. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at a fraction of the price. Transponder keys are a security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs to stop this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and then start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring ineffective. You may observe that the grooves of your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a point that allows your car to start up. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues you should contact an auto locksmith professional to repair your key. car ignition replacement near me take technology to the next level. The key instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and doors, and activating the car with a pressing of a button. Despite their ease of use however, these keys are a higher price than transponder keys or traditional keys because of their integrated technology. To work the smart keys work, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. These antennas activate when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the interior electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine. But smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you are too far away from your car, someone could intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by placing it into an ignition that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk. The type of vehicle you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. In general older cars tend to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Some models may also require the use of a keyless system integrated with the fob to allow 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 anxious about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide an alternative at a lower price and usually provide better service than the dealership.