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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost? The loss of your car keys could be a major headache. A replacement key is usually obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer. Based on the type of key, costs vary. Some car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob switchblade, transponder, and switchblade. Mechanical Key If your car was built before the year 1990 there is a good chance that you still have mechanical keys. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is inserted in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. These are easy to duplicate 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 were popular in the '90s and are designed to operate from a distance using an electronic remote, rather than being put into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However they are more expensive than a regular key. Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer on the vehicle to ensure that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. 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 due to an issue with the ignition switch. This component will cost more than a standard key, however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your car is safe. If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be put in, try gently jiggling the key. This can help free the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged over time from frequent use. However, it's important to keep in mind that this approach isn't always successful and may cause further damage. Remote Key It is possible to pay less for an alternative key if you have an old-fashioned key. They have a key shaft that's inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to work with your vehicle. If you're driving a newer vehicle, your key may contain a transponder chip inside it to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a genuine and functioning key can be used to start the engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are called rolling keys, that send the same signal each time they're used so that even if a person manages to take the key and then open your car, it won't able to start. Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock and even open your vehicle without having to put it in the ignition. They are more popular for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to protect your vehicle from theft, and give you more convenience. You will have to pay more when you have to replace a keyfob because it requires extra programming. Most dealerships will charge an additional fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in the owner's manual to specific sequences of button presses and turns to program it yourself. The key fob itself can cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more. Switchblade Key The switchblade car key may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually an innovative key that folds up into the fob. This type of key can be bought at a locksmith, auto dealer or even online however the price will be higher than traditional keys. Key fobs regulate the functions of your key and send signals when they are within range. The car's computer, or immobilizer will detect the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional car locksmiths are able to modify your key and chip 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 sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets between $25 to $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can run up to $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and the features that are included. A key fob with a switchblade can cost from $200 to $300, including the cost of a brand new battery and programming. The component pieces can often be purchased separately, so when the key fob isn't harmed you can just replace the blade and shank. Some of these keys may also come with a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which stop unauthorized use when they are placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the vehicle. This stops thieves from attempting to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them to copy the key. Transponder Key Transponder keys are likely to be used on vehicles that were manufactured within the past 20 years. These keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This can help prevent theft of your vehicle. The code is verified by your car's computer and the engine is started when the code matches. Without a working transponder key you won't be able to start your vehicle. If you're thinking of purchasing a new transponder key you must be aware that the dealership for your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're usually the only place who can create the kind of key your car needs. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key at only a fraction of the cost. Transponder keys are a security measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car to initiate it. This technology prevents car theft because it makes hot-wiring useless. If you own a transponder key, you may observe that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving little pins inside the lock into a position that allows your car to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these issues, it is time to call an auto locksmith to replace your keys. Smart Key Smart keys take technology to the next level. Instead of a traditional key, this fob contains a computer chip that connects with your vehicle, allowing you to perform basic tasks such as opening the trunk and door and even starting the engine with the click of a button. Despite their convenience, these keys come at more expensive than traditional or transponder keys due to their integrated technology. To function the smart keys work, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the inside electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once the smart key is identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer, and then starts its engine. Smart keys can pose a safety risk. If you're not far from your car it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal and begin your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. auto locksmith ignition replacement limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk. The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you use can influence the cost of replacing a key. In general, older models have lower replacement keys than modern models. Additionally, certain models might require a keyless entry system that's connected to the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost contact the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able to offer a replacement at less money and provide better service than a dealership.