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How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost? Losing your car keys could be a major hassle. Finding a replacement is usually an appointment at an auto dealership or a locksmith. Depending on the type of key, costs vary. Certain car keys are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys available: mechanical remote keyfob, remote, switchblade and transponder. Mechanical Key If your car was manufactured prior to the 1990s, there is a high possibility that you still have a mechanical key. These keys are simple and come with a metal head that is inserted into the ignition, and then turned to turn the car on. They are easy to duplicate and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a conventional, non-electronic keys, an auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for a cost of less than $50. Key fobs were popular in the 1990s and are designed to operate from a distance with a remote controller instead of being placed into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and do not require any special tools. However, they cost more than the regular key. Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the immobilizer of the vehicle to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and cost more to cut and program. If you're having difficulties starting your car it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement, but the security that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe makes it worth the investment. If your ignition lock cylinder has become stuck or cannot be inserted into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This can help free the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged over time from frequent use. This method is not always effective and can sometimes cause further damage. Remote Key If your car is equipped with a traditional key that is a traditional key, you will pay less to replace it. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is put into the ignition and then turned to start it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't need any special software to work with your car. Transponder chips are often included in the keys of newer vehicles to prevent theft. These chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a receiver inside the ignition to ensure that only a valid key is used and able to start your engine. The most advanced versions of these keys are referred to as rolling keys, which transmit a different signal every time they're used. This ensures that even if a person manages to take the key and then open your vehicle, it won't be able to start. Key fobs are basically an electronic remote control that lets you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as well as set off the alarm or open the trunk without having to physically insert it into the ignition. They are also more prevalent in cars built after the '90s, as they're a convenient way to make your car more safe from theft and give you added convenience. You will have to pay more if you need to replace the keyfob since it requires additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge a fee to program a new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in your owner's manual that describe specific sequences of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100. Switchblade Key The car key with a switchblade may appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a unique key that folds down into the fob. This type of key is available from an auto dealer, or online, but it will cost more than traditional keys. Key fobs are electronic devices that control the key's functions and transmit signals to your car when it is within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, which have been in use since 1995, are incorporated into most modern vehicles and transmit an unique code that only your car is able to read. Professional car locksmiths are able to reprogram your chip and key when they become damaged or lost. Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. A replacement key fob that has a chip built in can cost up to $500, depending on the features and the manufacturer. A key fob with an adjustable blade costs between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of replacing batteries and programming. If ignition lock cylinder repair is not damaged it is possible to replace the blade or shank. Certain keys might also include a VATS-Key or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the vehicle. This stops thieves from trying to force your ignition cylinder and also makes it much more difficult for them to copy the key. Transponder Key If your car was made in the last two decades, it's likely it is equipped with a transponder. The keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps to prevent the theft of your vehicle. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine starts if the code matches. You won't be allowed to start your car without an transponder key. Be aware that a car dealer will charge a higher price when you're looking to purchase a new transponder. This is because they're usually the only place that can make the type of key that your car needs. Locksmiths, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for less than 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. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and start it. This technology can help prevent car theft since it renders hot-wiring ineffective. If you have transponder keys you might observe that the grooves on the metallic portion of your key are beginning to wear out. The grooves in 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 doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing issues like this it's time to contact an expert auto locksmith to change your key. Smart Key Smart keys elevate technology to a new level. Rather than using a regular key, this type of key has a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you to perform standard tasks like opening the trunk and door and starting the engine with the click of a button. Despite their convenience however, these keys are a higher price than traditional or transponder keys due to their integrated technology. To function, these smart keys have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas activate when you open a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the interior electronics which identify the smart key as valid. Once recognized, the car stops its immobilizer and begins the engine. However, smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. If you're not far from your car it is possible for someone to detect the low-frequency signal and start your car by simply putting it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 centimeters to limit this risk. The model of car you drive and the model year can affect the cost of replacing keys. In general, older models have cheaper replacement keys than modern models. Some models may also require a keyless system that is connected to the fob to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're anxious about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able to provide a replacement at a lower price and often offer superior service than the dealership.