5 Laws That'll Help The Ignition Key Replacement Cost Industry
How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.
Costs vary depending on the kind of key. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys including mechanical remote keyfob, remote, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
There is an excellent chance that you own a traditional mechanical key if your vehicle was built prior to the '90s. These simple keys are metal with a head that can be put into the ignition, then turned to start the vehicle. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain electronic components. If you have a traditional lock, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost you less than $50.
Key fobs gained popularity in the early 1990s and are designed to operate by an electronic remote, rather than being put into the ignition. mobile ignition lock repair services are easier to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the standard key.
Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the right key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and will generally cost more to cut and programmed.
If you're having difficulties starting your car it could be due to a faulty switch. Having this part replaced will probably cost more than the average key replacement, but the security that comes from knowing that your car is safe is worth the expense.
If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be placed into the ignition, gently move the key. This could help to release the lock wafers that might have gotten damaged over time due to frequent use. However, it is important to note that this is not always successful and may cause more damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key and lock, you'll spend less money to replace it. They have a key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and 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 function with your vehicle.
Transponder chips are commonly included in the keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. These chips transmit a signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is in use and able to start your engine. The more sophisticated versions of these keys are called rolling keys, which send a different signal every time they're used so that even if someone does manage to take the key and then open your vehicle, it won't be capable of starting.
Key fobs are essentially an electronic remote control that lets you to lock or unlock your car, as well being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars built after the '90s, as they're a convenient method to make your vehicle more safe from theft and provide you with additional convenience.
If you own keys that need replacing you should be prepared to spend more because they require extra programming. Most dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob but you can save some money by following the owner's guide to reprogram your key yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounded like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not in use. This type of key can be available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or online 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 inside the car will recognize the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip if lost or damaged.
Keys that are traditional can be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs with no integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and manufacturer.
A key fob with an adjustable blade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of a new batteries and programming. The component pieces can often be bought separately, so when the key fob isn't harmed you can just replace the shank and blade. Some keys include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to hinder unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder, and it will also make it difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
If your car was built in the past two decades, it's likely it is equipped with a transponder. The chip inside keys can help prevent theft by transmitting an electronic code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The computer in your car examines the code and then starts the engine if it matches. Without a functioning transponder key, you won't be able to start your vehicle.
If you're thinking of purchasing an updated transponder key, you must be aware that the dealership selling your car will charge you a premium for the service. This is because they're often the only place that can produce the specific type of key that your car needs. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key for a fraction of the cost.
Transponder keys are a safety measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 1980s. To stop this, General Motors started incorporating a small RFID chip inside their key fobs, which can communicate with your car's engine to start it. This technology can help prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.
You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder keys are beginning to wear out. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock into a position that allows your car to begin. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard isn't visible when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are experiencing these issues then it's time to call an auto locksmith to repair your keys.
Smart Key Key
A smart key takes technology a step further. The fob instead of a standard key, contains a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you to perform standard tasks like unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as activating the car with a press of a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due the integrated technology.
To work the smart keys work, they have the LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas are activated when you open the trunk or door. The LF signal travels from the door and body to the interior electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once the smart key has been identified, the vehicle shuts off the immobilizer and begins its engine.
Smart keys can pose a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're far from your car someone could be able to intercept the low-frequency signal and start your car by inserting it in a compatible ignition. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit the risk.
The type of vehicle you drive and its model year can also affect the cost of replacement keys. As a rule older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than newer ones. Some models also require an entry system that's keyless and connected to the fob in order to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about how much your replacement will cost contact an area Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain an estimate prior to heading to the dealer. Our locksmiths can offer an alternative at a lower cost and usually provide better service than the dealership.