Ignition Lock Repair: what shapes the quote

In most cases, yes. Whether the cylinder is serviced in place or replaced outright, it is pinned to match the key you already carry wherever the vehicle's design allows it, rather than handing you a second key to keep track of. If the vehicle's own hardware makes that impossible, you are told before any work begins, not afterward.

Age and history of the vehicle

An older vehicle may have hardware that is harder to source, or wear built up over many years of daily use, while a vehicle with a known repair history gives the locksmith a clearer starting point.

Time needed to test every position

Cycling the ignition through every switch position and the steering lock, more than once, with the engine started and stopped to confirm the repair holds, adds a small amount of time on top of the repair.

Evidence of an earlier forced attempt

A lock that shows signs of having already been forced needs a full cylinder and housing replacement rather than a simple service, since the internal parts can no longer be trusted as they stand.