How Much Is a Car Key Fob Replacement?
Key fobs are able to perform a variety of functions, including opening doors or remotes. Some are more expensive than other kinds depending on the model.
Certain car models require a dealership visit to replace fobs and program them that costs an average of $200 per car, according to Consumer Reports. You can also save money by visiting a locksmith or buying an unopened key fob online, and then having it programmed.
Basic Keys
The cost of replacing a key fob can vary widely according to the model and type of your car. If you're replacing a basic car key fob, which unlocks doors, rolls down windows and triggers the alarm, it should not cost more than $100 at most hardware stores or locksmith shops. If your replacement key fob is equipped with a transponder or smart-key system it's likely to be more expensive.
Some car owners choose to purchase key fobs from aftermarket stores online to save money and avoid dealer fees. These key fobs that are aftermarket tend to be less expensive but they must be programmed to work with your vehicle by an expert. This is typically done by a locksmith, but it can take a bit longer. A locksmith might also charge extra for traveling to your home or work location, or might require you to tow your vehicle to their location.
You can also try to program your own key fob from an aftermarket in the event that you have your owner's manual of your car. This method has proven effective for many car owners however, it can be a challenge without the manual. You can find step by steps instructions in the owner's manual or online.
You can also buy laser-cut keys or "sidewinder" keys. These keys are difficult to duplicate and provide greater security. They have intricate side grooves made by specialized equipment found only in dealerships. Switchblade keys are also available. keys that have an elongated shank that is tucked away into the fob when not in use.
You can also purchase a smart key which is the most sophisticated type of key fob. They have an embedded microprocessor that communicates with the car whenever they are near. This reduces the possibility of theft from cars by only allowing your key to start the engine when it's within close proximity of the car's computer. Keys can range between $200-$500 based on your location and the dealer. Some dealers will program the smart key for you free of charge and others will charge a fee.
Smart Keys
Key fobs today do so much more than just unlock doors and open vehicles. Certain key fobs allow you to park your car in a tight space for you by connecting to sensors in your vehicle and using GPS data. This feature is more prevalent in high-end vehicles, but not everywhere.
Fobs can also be used for a variety of other functions that make them more valuable, like locking and unlocking doors, turning on the car's lights, and even allowing you to open the trunk from a distance. It's a convenience, and it's an effective way to deter theft. However, they're costly to replace or reprogram if they fail.
Prices for programming and reprogramming the key fob vary widely based on the type of vehicle, its features and the place where it's done. When selecting a service provider to perform this task, it's crucial to take note of these factors. Asking family and friends for suggestions or reading online reviews can help you find the best price.
If you're going to purchase a new fob it's best to purchase through the manufacturer or a dealer to ensure that you're getting a genuine part that's compatible with your specific car. There are also aftermarket fobs available, but they might not function as well and could have compatibility issues. Furthermore, some fobs from the aftermarket might require special programming tools that only a dealer can access.
Preventive measures such as making sure that your keys are compatible with the car you drive in and having a spare key on hand will help you avoid charges for reprogramming. If you do end up needing replacement keys, you can often save money by having the fob reprogrammed at the same time it is replaced.
You can also save a substantial amount of money by purchasing your key fob from an authentic source that provides genuine OEM parts. Many auto locksmiths suggest that you stick with OEM fobs as they're designed specifically for your vehicle's make and model to ensure proper functionality and compatibility.
Transponder Keys
A lot of modern cars are equipped with key fobs that do more than lock and unlock your doors. Some have transponder chips embedded in them that communicate with your car to tell it to start when the fob is within the range. Key fobs with transponder chips cost more than conventional keys, because they require a special programming process to function. This is usually done at the dealership, but locksmiths can also program them if they have the proper equipment. The cost to replace and reprogram a typical key fob with transponder could range from $150 to $250.
A basic key fob can be copied from a hardware store for less than $50, but only in the event that you copy a copy of it prior to losing the original key. You'll still need a traditional key to unlock your car however.
If your key fob isn't working correctly the first step in diagnosing the issue is to examine its battery. It's simple to replace these tiny batteries, but be careful not to damage the casing. You'll require a screwdriver or coin to pry open the key fob. You'll need to then carefully remove the old battery, being certain to note the orientation. Then, you can insert the new battery in the same orientation as the original one.
Key fobs that combine an electronic key and transponder typically cost the most to replace and program because they are more sophisticated in their features. These fobs are capable of locking or unlocking doors, starting your car remotely, and opening the trunk. These key fobs are more likely to be switchblade type, which allows you to slip into the blade when do not need to carry it.
These types of key fobs are typically the most expensive, particularly when they're from a luxury brand that come with top-of-the-line security systems. Kelley Blue Book reached out to dealerships across the country to get quotes for programming and replacing these types of fobs, and found that they usually charge $200 to $500. Some dealerships such as those of BMW and Mercedes-Benz will only allow customers to get their key fobs replaced at the dealership.
Keys for Aftermarket
A key fob emits a radio frequency that is connected to the receiver unit inside your car, allowing you to unlock it or start it. There is a chance that aftermarket keys that are marked compatible with your vehicle may not work. The reason is that every car manufacturer uses a different radio frequency for their fobs. If you purchase an aftermarket key, it may not function correctly.
A professional locksmith can save you money while ensuring that the replacement keyfob will be an OEM component. They can also install a battery and help you connect the fob to your car's system for less than dealers charge. The cost of a brand new fob will vary depending on the manufacturer and features, so it is important to investigate.
While you can find low-cost fobs online and at big-box retailers, the best option is to buy genuine car keys at an auto dealership. These are designed by automakers and have a longer lifespan than cheaper alternatives. They're usually made of more durable materials and come with more security features than fobs from the aftermarket, which can be easily damaged by extreme temperatures or by water.
When cheap car key fob replacement buy a new or used vehicle, check your owner's manual for directions on how to replace a key fob battery in your car. A standard coin-shaped battery costs around $10 or less and you can replace it yourself in a few minutes. If you own a smart fob however, you'll have to bring the spare to a dealership to program it, which will cost more.
Most locksmiths are willing to reprogram key fobs from aftermarket if they meet specific criteria set by the automaker. A locksmith in Boston claims, for instance that they are competent to work with GM or Ford keys without any issues. But they typically cannot use aftermarket fobs for Audi or other European models, and Genesky says that even a car dealership isn't able to work on these kinds of vehicles, since the digital key encryption cannot be programmed at the retail level.