Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Ignition Key Replacement Cost > 자유게시판

How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key can usually be found by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.

Costs vary based on type. Some car keys are less expensive to replace than others. Here are the four types of ignition keys that are available including mechanical, remote keyfob, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

There is a good chance that you have a classic mechanical key if your car was manufactured before the '90s. These simple keys feature a head made of metal that is placed in the ignition, and then turned to start the car. They are simple to duplicate and do not have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut the key and program it for a cost of less than $50.

Key fobs were popular in the '90s and are designed to operate from a distance using remote controls, rather than being put into the ignition. They are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to accomplish this, although they do cost a little more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are equipped 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 harder to duplicate and typically cost more to cut and programmed.

If you've experienced problems with your car starting it might be due to an issue with the ignition switch. Having this part replaced is likely to cost more than the average key replacement but the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your vehicle is safe makes it worth the investment.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or can't be inserted into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This will assist in releasing the lock wafers which may have been damaged from frequent use. This method is not always efficient and may result in further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to spend less on an alternative key if your vehicle has an old-fashioned key. The keys are made of a metal shaft that is inserted into the vehicle's ignition and then turned to begin it. These keys can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and don't require any special programming in order to work with your car ignition barrel replacement.

Transponder chips are typically found in keys of newer vehicles to help prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver in the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key can be used to start the engine. The keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send 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 a remote control that allows you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as being able to activate the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the ignition. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built in the 1990s, since they're a convenient way to make your car more secure from theft and to give you additional convenience.

If you have an old key fob that requires replacing, be prepared to pay more due to the fact that they require additional programming. The majority of dealers 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 for a specific sequence of button presses and turns to reprogram it yourself. The key fob will cost you between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade key sounded like the bladed weapon used for self-defense in parking lots however it's really an innovative car key that folds down into the fob when not being used. This type of key can be purchased from a locksmith, auto dealer or even online, but the cost will be higher than traditional keys.

Key fobs control the functions of your keys and send signals when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer in the car will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips are embedded in newer vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read-code. Professional locksmiths can reprogram your chip and key if they become damaged or lost ignition key.

Traditional keys can still be replaced with simple, inexpensive fobs with no integrated chip. You can usually find these at auto parts stores and other retail outlets for anywhere from $25 to $100. A key fob replacement that has a chip built into it can cost as high as $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade can cost between $200 and $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and the programming. The parts can typically be purchased separately, so if the key itself isn't damaged, you can replace the blade and shank. In addition, some of these types of keys can include a VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors which prevent unauthorized use when inserted in the ignition cylinder. They transmit various codes to the computer and the immobilizer of the vehicle. This will stop thieves from putting pressure on the ignition cylinder and also makes it more difficult for them copy the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are likely to be used on cars built in the past 20 years. The keys transmit a code when you insert them into the ignition. This helps prevent the theft of your vehicle. The computer in your car checks the code and starts the engine in the event that it matches. Without a functioning transponder key you won't be able to start your vehicle.

You should be aware that a car dealer will charge a premium if you want to get an updated transponder. This is due to the fact that they're the only place that can produce the specific kind of key your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for only a fraction of the price.

Transponder keys were introduced as a security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves started using a technology known as hot-wiring to prevent vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip into its key fobs in order to fight this. The chip can communicate with the car, and even start it. This technology helps prevent car theft as it renders hot-wiring obsolete.

You might observe that the grooves of your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is because the grooves shift little pins inside the lock to a point that allows your car to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your car's dashboard does not appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you are experiencing these problems you should call an auto locksmith to repair your keys.

Smart Key Key

A smart key takes technology one step further. The key instead of being the standard key, has a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you perform standard tasks like unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as starting the car with the press of a button. The keys are more expensive than standard keys or transponder ones due the technology integrated.

To work the smart keys work, they have to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas inside and outside the vehicle. They activate when you turn a door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels between the body and door to the inside electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. When the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and begins its engine.

However, smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. If you're far from your car, someone could detect the low-frequency signal and begin your vehicle by simply placing it in an ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10cm to minimize this risk.

The kind of car you drive and the model year can impact the cost of replacing keys. In general, older vehicles have lower keys to replace than the latest models. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that's connected to the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about how much your replacement will cost you can call the local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths can offer a replacement at less money and provide superior service than a dealership.