The 9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost
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The loss of your car keys can be a major headache. The process of replacing them usually requires an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.
Based on the type of key, prices vary. Some types of car keys are cheaper to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys: mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
There is a good chance that you have a traditional mechanical key if the car was manufactured prior to the 1990s. These basic keys are made of steel with a head that is placed in the ignition, then turned to start the vehicle. These keys are easy to duplicate and do not contain electronic components. If you have a traditional key it can be cut and programmed by an auto locksmith. It will cost you less than $50.
In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control rather than needing to insert the key into the ignition cylinder lock repair. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools for doing so however they cost a little more than a traditional key.
Transponder keys, first introduced in 1995, come with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the motor. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to have cut and programmed.
If you've had trouble when your car starts, it could be a sign of a faulty repair ignition lock cylinder switch. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than the average key replacement however the security that comes from knowing that your car is safe makes it worth the investment.
If your ignition lock cylinder is stuck or isn't able to be placed in, try gently jiggling the key. This will help release the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged over time from frequent use. This method isn't always efficient and may result in further damage.
Remote Key
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key that is a traditional key, you will pay less for replacing it. The keys are made of metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and turned to start the vehicle. They can be found at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't need any special software to work with your car.
If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, the key might include a transponder chip within it to help prevent theft. These chips transmit signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures that only a working and valid key can be used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that if someone steals the key the car won't be able to start.
Key fobs are basically remote controls that allow you to unlock or lock your vehicle, as being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition lock repair. They are more popular on cars built after the 1990s. They're a great way to protect your vehicle from theft, and give you more convenience.
You'll have to pay more when you require replacing a keyfob because it requires additional programming. The majority of dealers will charge the cost of programming a new one, but you can save money by following the steps in your owner's manual that describe specific sequences of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself can cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounds like the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots, but this is just an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when not being used. This type of key can be bought at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer or even on the internet, but the cost will be higher than conventional keys.
Key fobs regulate the functions of your key and transmit a signal when they are within reach. The car's computer, or immobilizer will recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips are integrated into newer vehicles since 1995. They provide a unique, only-your-car read code. Professional locksmiths in the car can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is 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 as well as other retail outlets for between $25 to $100. The cost of a new key fob that has a built-in chip can range from $500 or more, based on the manufacturer and features offered by.
A key fob with the switchblade could cost between $200 to $300, which includes the price of a new battery and programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, so if the key itself isn't damaged, you can replace the shank and blade. In addition to that, certain kinds of keys may include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which make it impossible for unauthorized use to be they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. They send different codes to the computer and to the immobilizer of the car. This will prevent thieves from forcing your ignition and key replacement cylinder to open, and also makes it more difficult for them copy the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely to be used on cars made in the last 20 years. They transmit a number when they are inserted into the ignition. This can help prevent the theft of your vehicle. The code is checked by your car's computer, and the engine is started if the code matches. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle without an transponder key.
Be aware that car dealers will charge a premium for you to purchase an updated transponder. This is because they're often the only one in town that can make the kind of key your vehicle requires. A locksmith can program and cut your new key at less than the cost.
Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a method known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 80s. To combat this, General Motors started incorporating tiny RFID chip into their key fobs that can communicate with your car to start it. This technology prevents car theft as it renders hot-wiring ineffective.
If you own a transponder key, you may observe that the grooves on the metal part of your key are beginning to wear down. The grooves on the lock are able to move the pins to a position where your car can start. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol will not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you are having these issues then it's time to contact an auto locksmith ignition replacement locksmith in order to change your keys.
Smart Key
Smart keys take technology to the next level. The key, instead of using the standard key, has a computer that connects to your vehicle, allowing you to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors, and starting the car with the pressing of a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due to the technology integrated.
To function the smart keys work, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. They activate when you turn a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the interior electronics which recognize it as a valid smart key. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle disables the immobilizer and begins its engine.
However, smart keys could also be a safety risk. How Stuff Works Electronics says that if you're too far from your car an individual could pick up the low frequency signal and start your car by inserting it into an ignition that is compatible with. Certain manufacturers set the maximum transmission range to 10 cm to mitigate this risk.
The model year and the type of vehicle you drive can affect the cost of a replacement key. In general older cars tend to have cheaper key replacements than those with more modern features. Some models also require a keyless entry system that's connected to the fob in order to allow features such as remote locking and trunk opening. Call a Pop-A-Lock to receive an estimate prior to going to the dealer if you're worried about the price of a replacement cost. Our locksmiths can provide a replacement at cheaper and provide better service than dealerships.