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14 Companies Doing An Excellent Job At Ignition Key Replacement Cost
How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a major hassle. A replacement key is typically found by making an appointment with a dealer or auto locksmith.

Costs vary based on kind of key. Certain kinds of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys including mechanical remote keyfob, remote, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was constructed before the 1990s There is a good possibility that you still have a mechanical key. These keys come with a metal head that is inserted into the ignition and then turned to start the car. These 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 at less than $50.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance using a remote controller instead of being put into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools to do so however they cost more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer, ensuring that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you have trouble starting your car, it could be due to a defective switch. This part will cost more than a standard key, but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe.

If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or can't be placed in by gently turning the key. ignition system repair will help release the lock wafers that may have been slightly damaged from frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may cause further damage.

Remote Key

If your car has traditional keys, you can expect to pay less for replacing it. These keys have a metal shaft that's inserted in the ignition and turned to start your vehicle. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special programming to function with your vehicle.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might include a transponder chip within it to in preventing theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a genuine and functioning key is used to start the engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which transmit the same signal each time they're used so that even if someone manages to get the key and enter your vehicle, it won't be capable of starting.

Key fobs are basically an electronic remote control that lets you to unlock or lock your car, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk without the need to insert it into the ignition. These are also more common in vehicles made after the '90s, as they're a convenient way to make your vehicle more secure from theft and give you additional convenience.

You'll need to pay more if you need to replace a keyfob because it requires extra programming. Most dealers charge a fee for programming a new key fob, but you can save some money by following your owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 to $100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key may seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually an innovative key that folds down into the fob. This type of key can be purchased at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer or even on the internet but the cost will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs regulate the functions of your key and send a signal when they are within reach. The car's computer, or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional car locksmiths are able to change the chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.

Simple, low-cost fobs that do not have an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. The cost of a new key fob with an integrated chip can range from $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob with a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of replacing batteries and programming. If the key fob is not damaged you can replace the blade or shank. Some of these keys may also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which prevent unauthorized use when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the car. This stops thieves from attempting to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be found on vehicles made in the last 20 years. The chip inside keys can help prevent theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by the computer in your car, and the engine starts when the code is found to match. You will not be able to start your vehicle if you don't have an transponder key.

Be aware that car dealers will charge you a fee for you to purchase an updated transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only shop in town that can produce the specific type of key your car needs. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price.


Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to combat 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 may notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear down. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock to a position that allows your car to begin. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing these issues, it's time to call an expert auto locksmith to repair your key.

Smart Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. Rather than using a regular key, this fob contains an electronic chip that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and even starting the engine at just the push of a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.

They function by using the 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 electronics in the interior, which identify it as an authentic smart key. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer, and then starts its engine.

However, smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. If you're not far from your vehicle, someone could take the low-frequency signal and start your car by simply putting it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.

The model of car you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. In general, older models have cheaper keys to replace than the latest models. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's integrated with the fob to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. If you're worried about how the replacement cost will be, call an area Pop-A-Lock branch to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement at less money and provide better service than a dealership.