Ignition Replacement Cost

By Michael Anderson, 27 years of experience · November 9, 2026 · 6 min read

Our listed starting prices are $110 for car key replacement and $70 for key fob programming; we do not list an ignition replacement price. Call (805) 977-6159 to request help with the key or ignition.

Our Starting Prices in San Luis Obispo

Need help now? (805) 977-6159

Ignition Replacement Cost Starts With Identifying the Fault

A car that will not start does not automatically need a new ignition. The issue may involve the key, the key fob, or the ignition, so the first useful step is to note exactly what happens when you try to start the vehicle.

Our listed starting prices are $110 for car key replacement and $70 for key fob programming; we do not list a starting price for ignition replacement. Those key-service prices are not an ignition replacement quote. The work needed depends on what the locksmith finds, so describe the symptoms before approving a repair.

Tell us whether the key is missing, damaged, stuck, or turning normally, and whether a spare key behaves differently. That information helps separate a lost-key problem from a possible ignition issue without forcing or damaging anything.

Which Car Key and Ignition Prices Are Listed

These starting prices cover related car key services, not ignition replacement. The $29 service call is $29.

• Car key replacement — from $110 — This is the listed starting price for replacing a car key. When all keys are lost, we make a new car key on site.
• Key fob programming — from $70 — This starting price is for programming a key fob, not replacing an ignition. A fob issue and a mechanical ignition issue call for different work.
• Ignition replacement — No starting price for ignition replacement is listed here. Ask what the inspection identifies and what work the quote covers before agreeing to a repair.

Choose the Car Key Service That Matches the Problem

A useful estimate starts by matching the symptom to the part that needs attention. These options show why a key service should not be treated as an ignition replacement.

Need help now? (805) 977-6159

Seven Safe Checks Before Requesting Ignition Work

Keep the checks to observation and normal owner use. Stop if the key is stuck, bent, or takes force to turn; forcing it can make the problem worse.

1. Park safely — Put the vehicle in a safe, stable place before checking the key or fob. Make sure the vehicle is secured and that you are not blocking traffic.
2. Describe the symptom — Note whether the key is missing, will not enter normally, will not turn, or turns without starting the vehicle. The exact behavior helps distinguish a key concern from an ignition concern.
3. Look over the key — Check for visible bending, cracks, or damage without trying to straighten it. Stop using a visibly damaged key so it does not break in the ignition.
4. Check the fob’s response — Notice whether the fob buttons operate the vehicle as usual. If the fob has stopped responding, say so when you ask about key fob service instead of assuming the ignition is faulty.
5. Try a spare key if you have one — Use only a spare that belongs to the vehicle and follow its normal starting procedure. If the spare works differently, report that difference; do not repeatedly test a key that sticks.
6. Observe the dashboard — Take note of warning messages or lights that appear during a normal start attempt. Share what you see rather than guessing what the message means.
7. Stop and request help when turning takes force — Do not force a stuck key or try to remove ignition parts yourself. Call a locksmith for an assessment, and explain whether the key is trapped or damaged.

Three Common Situations and Their Starting Prices

When every car key is lost, the listed starting price for car key replacement is $110. We make a new car key on site in an all-keys-lost situation, so explain that no working key is available when you request service.

When the key is available but the fob needs programming, the listed starting price for key fob programming is $70. If the key itself is damaged or missing, describe that instead; programming alone may not address the problem.

When the key will not turn or the ignition seems faulty, neither of those key-service starting prices is an ignition replacement quote. Ask what the assessment finds and what the proposed work includes. You can review our prices for the listed services, but confirm the scope of ignition work separately.

What to Do When a Key or Ignition Check Does Not Fix It

If the key still sticks, will not turn, or behaves differently from a spare, stop testing it. Repeated force can damage the key or leave it stuck, making a simple assessment more difficult.

If a new key is needed, tell the locksmith whether you still have any working keys. The steps differ when all keys are lost, and we can make a new car key on site when none remain.

For a fob that will not operate the vehicle, explain which buttons work and whether the key is present. Our article on whether an automotive locksmith can program keys covers that related service; it is not the same as replacing an ignition.

Need help now? (805) 977-6159

Getting Car Key Help at Your Vehicle

We are a mobile locksmith and come to you. We serve San Luis Obispo and Central Coast towns within 30 miles; within San Luis Obispo, the typical arrival time is within 15 minutes, while farther-out towns get the next free locksmith.

When you contact us, give your location, describe whether the issue is a missing key, an unresponsive fob, or a key that will not turn, and say whether you have a spare. That lets us understand what service you are requesting before dispatch.

Frequently asked questions