How Much Is a Car Key Fob Replacement?
Key fobs can be used for a variety of functions, such as opening doors or remotes. Depending on the type, certain ones are more expensive than others.
Certain models of cars require a visit to the dealership to replace the fob and program it that costs an average of $200 per car as per Consumer Reports. You can also save money by visiting a locksmith, or buying a blank key fob on the internet, and then having it programmed.
Basic Keys
The cost of a replacement key fob can vary widely depending on the type and model of your car. If you're replacing a standard car key fob, which unlocks doors, shuts windows and triggers the alarm, it should not cost more than $100 at most hardware stores or locksmith shops. However, if the replacement key fob also contains transponder chips or a smart-key system, it's going to be more expensive.
Some car owners choose to buy aftermarket key fobs on the internet to save money and avoid dealer fees. These key fobs from the aftermarket tend to be less expensive, but must be programmed to work with your car by a professional. A locksmith is usually able to perform this task for you, however the process takes longer. A locksmith may charge an additional fee to visit your home, workplace or business place or tow your car to their shop.
You could also program your own key fob from an aftermarket in the event that you have your owner's manual of your car. car key and fob replacement have experienced satisfaction with this method but it can be difficult to master without the aid of a manual. There are step-by-step directions in the owner's manual or on the internet.
Aside from the basic key fob you can also purchase laser-cut or "sidewinder" keys. These keys are more difficult to duplicate and offer greater security. They have intricate side grooves made by specialized equipment found only in dealerships. You can also purchase switchblade keys that have a shank which tucks into the fob when in use.
Finally, you can purchase a smart key, which is the most advanced type of key fob. They have an embedded microprocessor that communicates with the car when they are close. This system helps reduce the risk of car theft by allowing your key to start the engine only when it's within close proximity of the car's computer. These keys can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 depending on the location you live in and the dealership. Some dealers will program the smart key for you free of charge and others will charge a fee.
Smart Keys Keys
Key fobs today do so much more than unlock doors and start vehicles. Some can do things like park your car in an area that is tight by connecting to the vehicle's sensors and using GPS data to determine the best place to park. This technology is becoming more popular in luxury vehicles, but it's not available in every model.
The fobs have other functions, such as locking and unlocking doors, turning on the lights and opening the trunk remotely. It's a convenience, and it's an effective deterrent to theft. But they are expensive to replace or reprogram when they break.
Prices can differ significantly for the replacement and programming of a new fob depending on the model and make of the vehicle, the technology in the fob, and where you'll be getting the job completed. When selecting the right service provider for this task, it's crucial to consider these factors. If you're not sure of the best option, you might consider asking friends and family members for recommendations or looking through online reviews to find the most affordable price.
It's best to buy a new key fob from the manufacturer or dealership. This will ensure you get an authentic part that is compatible with your car. There are a variety of aftermarket fobs, but they might not function as well and could have compatibility issues. Some fobs from the aftermarket require special programming tools, which are only available to dealers.
Take preventive measures, such as making sure that your keys are compatible with the vehicle you drive in and having an extra key available can help you avoid costs associated with reprogramming. If you have to replace your fob, you could save money by having it reprogrammed before you replace it.
You can save a lot of money if you purchase your key fob from a reputable retailer that sells authentic OEM parts. A lot of auto locksmiths recommend to stick with OEM fobs as they are specifically designed for your car's brand and model to ensure proper functionality and compatibility.
Transponder Keys
Many modern cars are built with key fobs which do more than lock and unlock your doors. Some have transponder chips embedded inside that communicate with your car, telling it to start when the fob is within the range. These key fobs are more expensive than conventional keys due to the need for special programming to function. This is typically done by the dealership, however locksmiths can also program them if they have the proper equipment. A typical key fob that has transponder chip could cost between $150 and $250 to replace and program.
A basic key fob can be copied from the hardware store for less than $50, but that's only useful when you make a duplicate of it before you lose the original. You'll still need a conventional key to open your car, however.
Examine the battery of your key fob to determine whether it's failing. It's easy to replace these tiny batteries, but be cautious not to harm the casing. Make use of a screwdriver or coin to break the fob's key open. Remove the old battery and note the orientation. Replace the battery with the same orientation as your previous one.
The most expensive key fobs combine the transponder and mechanical keys. This is due to them having the most advanced features. These kinds of fobs can lock or unlock your doors, open your car remotely and even open your trunk. These key fobs tend to be switchblade style, which allows you to tuck into the blade when you do not need to carry it.
These types of key fobs are typically the most expensive, particularly when they're from premium brands that include them with state-of-the-art security systems. Kelley Blue Book reached out to dealers across the country to obtain estimates for programming and replacing these types of fobs. They found that they usually cost between $200 and $500. Some dealerships, like those for BMW and Mercedes-Benz will only permit their customers to have their key fob replaced at the dealership.
Keys for Aftermarket
A key fob emits a radio frequency that is connected to the receiver unit in your vehicle, allowing you to unlock or begin it. Although you can find aftermarket fobs on the market that are advertised as compatible with your car however, there is a chance that they won't function properly. This is because the manufacturer of each type of vehicle has a distinct version of radio frequencies used by fobs. If you purchase an aftermarket key that is not compatible with your particular model and make, it can lead to malfunction.
A professional locksmith will save you money while ensuring that your replacement keyfob is a genuine OEM component. A locksmith can install an entirely new battery and then integrate the key fob into your car's computer system for less money than a dealership. However, the price of a replacement fob may vary widely depending on the brand and features you choose to use, so it's important to research options carefully.
While you can find low-cost fobs online and at big-box retailers, the best choice is to purchase a genuine car key fob at an auto dealership. These are made by the automaker and have a more long life span than cheaper alternatives. They're usually made of stronger materials and come with better security features than fobs that are sold by the aftermarket, which can be easily damaged by extreme temperatures or by water.
If you purchase a new or used vehicle, check your owner's manual for directions on how to replace the key fob battery for your car. You can replace a simple coin-shaped car key fob yourself in just a few moments for less than $10. If you have a smart device however, you'll have to take the spare to a dealer to be programmed, which can cost more.
Most locksmiths are willing to reprogram aftermarket key fobs provided they meet the requirements that are set by the automaker. A locksmith in Boston states, for instance that they're competent to work with GM or Ford keys with no issues. However, they are not able to use aftermarket fobs for Audi or other European models as well as Genesky states that even a car dealership can't work on those kinds of vehicles, since the digital encryption of keys is not programmable at a retail level.