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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost? ignition lock replacement cost of your car keys can be a major hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at the dealership or an auto locksmith. Depending on the kind of key, prices vary. Certain keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys including mechanical, remote keyfob, transponder and switchblade. Mechanical Key If your car was manufactured before the year 1990 There is a good possibility that you still have an electronic key. These keys have a metal head that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. These are easy to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic keys an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it at the price of less than $50. Key fobs gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to be operated from a distance using an electronic remote instead of being placed into the ignition. They are simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than a normal 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 can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate and cost more to cut and program. If you've experienced problems when your car starts, it could be the result of an ignition switch that is not working properly. This part will cost you more than a standard key but it's a worthwhile investment to ensure that your car is safe. If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or can't be placed in by gently turning the key. This could help release the lock wafers which may be a little damaged due to frequent usage. However, it is important to note that this is not always effective and may cause more damage. Remote Key You can expect to spend less on an alternative key if your vehicle has an old-fashioned key. They have a shaft that's inserted in the ignition, and then turned to start the vehicle. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to work with your vehicle. Transponder chips are often included in the keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. These chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is used and is able to start the engine. The more advanced versions of these keys are known as rolling keys, that send the same signal each time they're used. This ensures that even if someone does manage to take the key and then open your vehicle, it won't be in a position to start. Key fobs function as remote controls that allow you to unlock, lock, and open your car without the need to put it in the ignition. These are more common for vehicles manufactured after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to protect your vehicle from theft, and give you more convenience. If you own a key fob that needs replacement you should be prepared to spend more due to the fact that they require additional programming. Most dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob but you can save money by following the owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob will cost you 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's actually a unique key that folds up into the fob. This type of key is available from an auto dealer, or on the internet however it will cost more than traditional keys. Key fobs manage the functions of your key and transmit signals 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 are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read code. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your chip and key if lost or damaged. Keys that are traditional can be substituted with cheap, simple fobs with no integrated chip. These are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets ranging between $25 and $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included. A key fob that has an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a brand new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Some keys also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to make it impossible for unauthorized use to be placed in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and immobilizer of the vehicle. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, and will make it 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. The chip on these keys prevents vehicle theft by sending a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The car's computer checks the code and starts the engine if it matches. You won't be able to start your car without an transponder key. You should be aware that a car dealer will charge a higher price for you to purchase an updated transponder. They are often the only people in town who can make the specific type of key your car requires. Locksmiths can program and cut your new key for a fraction of the price. Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s when car thieves started using a technique called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. 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 helps prevent theft of cars by making hot-wiring ineffective. You may observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning to wear out. The grooves on the lock allow the pins to move into a position that allows your car can begin. You'll also be able to see that the key symbol on the dashboard of your car does not 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. Smart Key Key Smart keys take technology one step further. The fob instead of the standard key, has a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you do basic tasks like locking the doors and trunk, as well as activating the car with a press of a button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated. To work the smart keys, they are equipped with to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle that are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that identify the smart key as valid. Once it is recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine. However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. If you're not far from your car, someone could detect the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by simply placing it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10cm to reduce this risk. The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of replacing a key. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than newer models. Also, some models may require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about how much your replacement will cost contact a local Pop-A-Lock branch to receive a quote before you head to the dealer. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than dealerships.