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The loss of your car keys can be a major hassle. A replacement key is typically made by scheduling an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.

Costs vary depending on the type. Certain types of keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. Here are the four kinds of ignition keys that are available including mechanical keys, remote keyfobs, switchblade and transponder.

Mechanical Key

If your car was built before the year 1990, there is a high likelihood that you have an electronic key. These simple keys are metal with a head that is inserted into the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. These keys are easy to duplicate and don't have any electronic components. If you already have a traditional non-electronic lock, an auto locksmith can easily cut it and program it at less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance using a remote control instead of having to insert the keys into the ignition. These are easier to duplicate, and don't require any special tools. However, they cost more than the standard key.

Transponder keys, which were introduced in 1995, are equipped with microchips that communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've had trouble with your car starting it may be due to an ignition switch that is not working properly. The replacement of this component is likely to cost more than a typical key replacement but the assurance from knowing that your vehicle is safe is worth the cost.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock is stuck or unable to be put into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could help to release the lock wafers that could have been damaged over time due to frequent use. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

You can expect to pay less for an alternative key if your car has traditional keys. The keys are made of metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition and turned to turn the engine. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith, and they don't require special programming to function with your car.

Transponder chips are typically included in the keys of newer automobiles to help in preventing theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver located in the ignition. This ensures only a working and valid key is used to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys that transmit every time they are used. This means that if someone steals the key and your car doesn't start.

Key fobs are essentially remote controls that allow you to lock or unlock your vehicle, as as set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to insert it into the ignition. They are more popular on cars built after the 1990s. They're an excellent way to secure your car from theft, and give you more convenience.

You'll need to pay more when you need to replace a keyfob because it requires extra programming. The majority of dealers charge a fee for programming the new key fob, but you can save money by following the owner's instructions to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob is priced between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car key might appear like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it is actually a unique key that folds into a fob. This type of key is available at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer, or even online however the price will be higher than conventional keys.

Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and send an alert when they are within reach. The computer or immobilizer inside the car ignition replacement will detect the signal and allow the engine start. Transponder chips are embedded in modern vehicles since 1995 and transmit a unique, exclusive-to-your-car read-code. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your key and chip if damaged or lost.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets that cost between $25 and $100. The cost of a new key fob with an integrated chip can range from $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and the features that are included.

A key fob equipped with a switchblade costs between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of new batteries and the programming. The components can usually be purchased separately, so if the key fob itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the blade and shank. Additionally certain types of keys come with VATS or PASS-Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that hinder misuse by sending various codes to the car's computer and immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition cylinder. This stops thieves from trying to use force on your ignition cylinder replacement near me cylinder, and makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys can be found on vehicles made in the last 20 years. The chip in these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by sending a code to your car when you insert it into the ignition. The code is checked by the computer in your car, and the engine will start when the code is found to match. You won't be allowed to start your vehicle without an transponder key.

Be aware that a car dealer will charge you a fee when you're looking to purchase a new transponder. They are often the only ones in town who can cut the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. A locksmith, on the other hand, can cut and program your new key at a less than the cost.

Transponder keys are a safety measure that was introduced when car thieves began using a technology known as hot-wiring to steal cars in the 1980s. 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 helps prevent car ignition barrel replacement theft as it renders hot-wiring obsolete.

You might be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning wear out. This is because the grooves move tiny pins inside the lock to a position that allows your car to start. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition, the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing issues like this you should contact a professional auto locksmith to replace your key.

Smart Key Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. This fob instead of being an ordinary key, is equipped with an electronic device that communicates with your vehicle, allowing it to do basic tasks like locking the trunk and doors and activating the car ignition replacement near me with a press of a button. Although they are convenient however, these keys are more expensive than traditional or transponder keys because of the integrated technology.

The smart keys function by having LF (low-frequency) antennas which transmit outside and inside of the vehicle. They are activated when you turn on the trunk or door handle. The LF signal travels through the body and door to the inside electronics that determine that the smart key is valid. Once the smart key is recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and begins its engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. If you're far from your vehicle it is possible for someone to take the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by placing it in a compatible ignition slot, as per How Stuff Works Electronics. Certain manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce the risk.

The year of manufacture and the type of vehicle you drive influence the cost of a replacement key. In general, older models tend to have lower key replacements than the newer models. Also, some models may require an entry system that's keyless and integrated with the fob to enable features such as remote locking and trunk opening. If you're concerned about much your replacement will cost, call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to obtain a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths can provide an upgrade at a lower cost and often offer better service than the dealership.