(Image: https://g28carkeys.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/toyota-logo-2020.png)How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys could be a major headache. A replacement key can usually be made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Costs vary based on kind of key. Some types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
If your car was manufactured before the year 1990 There is a good likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These keys are made of metal with a head that is placed in the ignition and turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.
Key fobs gained popularity in the '90s and are designed to be operated from a distance with an electronic remote, rather than being inserted into the ignition. They are easy to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the regular key.
Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with a microchip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the appropriate key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys can be difficult to duplicate, and cost more to cut and program.
If you have difficulty starting your car, it could be due to a faulty switch. This component will cost more than a standard key but it is worth the investment to ensure that your car is secure.
If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or can't be put in Try gently jiggling the key. This will help release the lock wafers, which could have been damaged due to frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with traditional keys, you can expect to pay less to replace it. They are made of metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition cylinder lock repair and then turned to begin it. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't require any special programming to function with your vehicle.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, the key might have a transponder chip in it to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures only a valid and working key is used to start the engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they're used, so that even if someone does manage to steal the key and open your car, it won't be capable of starting.
Key fobs work as remote controls that allow you to lock, unlock and even open your vehicle without having to insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars manufactured after the '90s, as they're a convenient way to make your car more secure from theft and give you additional convenience.
If you have a key fob that needs replacing, be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. Most dealerships will charge an additional fee to program the new key fob, however you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual that describe a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50 to $100.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounded like an armed weapon with blades to defend yourself in the parking lot however, it's actually an innovative car key that folds up into the fob when not in use. This kind of key can be purchased at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer, or even online however the price will be more than traditional keys.
Key fobs are electronic devices that regulate the functions of the key and send an alert to your vehicle when they are within range. The computer or immobilizer within the car will recognize the signal and permit the engine start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your chip and key if damaged or lost.
Traditional keys can still be replaced with inexpensive, basic fobs that have no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that comes with a chip in can cost up to $500, based on the features and manufacturer.
A key fob that has an adjustable blade costs between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of replacing batteries and programming. If the key fob isn't 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 make it impossible for unauthorized use to be inserted in the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and immobilizer of the vehicle. This deters thieves from trying to use force on your ignition cylinder, and also makes it much more difficult for them to duplicate the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys can be used on vehicles that were manufactured within the last 20 years. The chip on these keys prevents vehicle theft by transmitting a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is verified by your car's computer and the engine will start when the code matches. Without a functioning transponder key, you won't be able to start your car.
If you're thinking about getting a new transponder key, you need to know that the dealership selling your car will charge you a fee for the service. This is due to the fact that they're the only place that can produce the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. 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 ignition switch thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring for stealing vehicles in the 1980s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car ignition switch replacement's engine to start it. This technology prevents car theft by making hot-wiring useless.
You might notice that the grooves of your transponder key 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 start. Also, when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you are experiencing these problems then it's time to contact an auto locksmith in order to change your keys.
Smart Key
Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. This fob instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to perform basic tasks such as unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as starting the car with the press of a button. Despite their convenience they are an additional cost than traditional or transponder keys because of their integrated technology.
They function by using the LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the electronics in the interior which recognize it as a valid smart key. Once it is recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine.
Smart keys could present a risk to safety. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your vehicle, someone could be able to intercept the low frequency signal and start your car by putting it into a compatible ignition. Certain manufacturers restrict the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit this risk.
The kind of vehicle you drive and its model year can affect the cost of replacement keys. As a general rule older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Some models also require an entry system that's keyless and integrated with the fob to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Contact Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're concerned about how much a replacement will cost. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower price and usually provide better service than the dealership.