A Look Into The Future What's The Ignition Key Replacement Cost Industry Look Like In 10 Years
How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys can be a major headache. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith.
Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the different types of ignition keys that are available: mechanical, remote key fob as well as transponder and switchblade.
Mechanical Key
There is a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These basic keys are made of steel with a head which is placed in the ignition, then turned to start the car. They are easy to duplicate and don't contain electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost well under $50.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of having to insert the key into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than a regular key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are fitted with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer on the vehicle and ensures that only the correct key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be harder to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.
If you've had trouble getting your car to start, it could be due to a faulty ignition switch. The replacement of this component will probably cost more than a typical key replacement, but the assurance from knowing that your vehicle is safe is worth the investment.
If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be inserted into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will help release the lock wafers that may be a little damaged by frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may cause further damage.
Remote Key
You can expect to spend less on an alternative key if your car has a traditional key. They are made of metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to start it. These keys are available at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to function with your vehicle.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might contain a transponder chip inside it to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a valid and working key is used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that send every time they are used. This means that if anyone takes the key away, your car won't start.
Key fobs work as a remote control, allowing you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without having to put it in the ignition. They are also more prevalent in vehicles made in the 1990s, since they're a simple method to make your vehicle more safe from theft and give you added convenience.
You'll need to pay more if you need to replace a keyfob as it requires extra programming. Most dealerships will charge the cost of programming a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in the owner's manual to a specific sequence of turns and button presses to program it yourself. The key fob is priced between $50 to $100.
Switchblade Key
The car key with a switchblade may seem like a weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a novel key that folds up into the fob. This type of key can be available from an auto dealer, or even online however it will cost more than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that manage the functions of keys and send a signal to your car when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car will be able to recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips are integrated into modern vehicles since 1995 and provide a unique, only-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key in the event that they are damaged or lost.
Simple, inexpensive fobs without an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are usually available at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob that has a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features included.
A key fob with an electronic switchblade will cost you between $200 to $300, not including the price of a new battery and programming. If the key fob isn't damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Additionally certain types of keys may include VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder unauthorized use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, and it will also make it harder for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys can be used on vehicles that were built in the last 20 years. The chip inside these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by your car's computer and the engine will start when the code matches. You won't be able to start your car without an transponder key.
If you're thinking of purchasing an updated 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 shop in town that can produce the specific type of key your car needs. A locksmith can program and cut your new key for less than the cost.
Transponder keys are a safety measure that was implemented when car thieves began using a method called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 1980s. G28 began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to stop this. The chip can communicate with the car and then start it. This technology prevents car theft because it makes hot-wiring ineffective.
You might notice that the grooves of your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves move tiny 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 the dashboard of your car doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are having these issues you should contact an auto locksmith to replace your keys.
Smart Key Key
Smart keys take technology a step further. Instead of using a standard key, this one has an electronic chip that communicates with your car, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the trunk and door and starting the engine with the press of one button. These keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the integrated technology.
To function, these smart keys have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.
Smart keys could pose a safety risk. If you're not far from your car, someone could take the low-frequency signal, and then start your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.
The model year and the type of vehicle you use can affect the cost of replacing a key. In general, older cars have cheaper keys to replace than the latest models. Some models also require keys that are connected to the fob in order to allow features like remote locking and trunk opening. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement for less money and provide better service than a dealership.