How Much Is a Car Key Fob Replacement?
Key fobs can be used for a variety of functions, such as opening doors or remotes. Some are more expensive than others, depending on the type.
Some car models require a visit to a dealer to replace fobs and program them, which costs about $200 for each car, according to Consumer Reports. You can also save money by visiting a locksmith shop or buying a blank key fob on the internet, and then having it programmed.
Basic Keys
The cost of a replacement fob can vary greatly depending on your car's model and the type. g28carkeys of locksmith and hardware stores will not cost more than $100 for replacing a standard key fob for cars that open doors, lowers windows, and activates the security system. If your replacement key fob has a transponder chip or has a smart-key system, it's likely to be more expensive.
Some car owners choose to buy aftermarket key fobs on the internet to save money and avoid the cost of dealerships. These key fobs that are aftermarket tend to be less expensive but they must be programmed to work with your car by a professional. A locksmith is usually able to do this for you, however the process can take longer. A locksmith may charge an additional fee to visit your workplace, home or business place or to take your vehicle to their location.
You can also try to program your own aftermarket key fob in the event that you have your owner's manual of your car. Many car owners have experienced satisfaction with this method however it is difficult to implement correctly without the aid of a manual. You can find step-by-step instructions in the owner's guidebook 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 more security. They have side grooves only made by dealers with specialized equipment. Switchblade keys are also available. keys with an shank that can be tucked into the fob when not in use.
You can also purchase a smart fob, which is a more advanced key fob. These keys contain a microprocessor that communicates with the car when they are close. This system minimizes the risk of car theft by allowing the key to start the car only when it is within close proximity to its computer. The cost of these kinds of keys ranges from $200 to $500 depending on the dealer and your location. Some dealers will program your smart key for free, whereas others will require a fee.
Smart Keys
Key fobs of today do a lot more than unlock doors and turn on cars. Certain key fobs allow you to park your vehicle in a tight area for you by connecting to vehicle's sensors and utilizing GPS data. This feature is becoming more common in high-end vehicles, but it's not available in every model.
The fobs also serve other purposes they can also be used for, like locking and unlocking the doors, turning on the lights and opening the trunk remotely. They're convenient and a theft deterrent however, they're expensive to replace or reprogram in the event that they become damaged.
Prices for programming and reprogramming keys can vary widely depending on the type of vehicle, its technology and the location in which it is done. When choosing the right service provider for this task, it's crucial to consider these elements. If you're not sure of the best option, you might consider asking your family and friends for recommendations and looking through online reviews to find the best price.
If you're going to purchase a new fob, it's best to purchase via the manufacturer or a dealership to ensure that you're getting a genuine item that's compatible with your particular car. Aftermarket fobs are available however they might not work as well or have the same compatibility issues. Some fobs from the aftermarket require special programming tools which are available only to dealers.
Take 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're looking to replace your fob, you can save money by having it reprogrammed before you replace it.
You can also save a significant amount of money by purchasing your key fob through an authentic source that provides genuine OEM parts. Many auto locksmiths suggest that you only use OEM fobs because they are designed specifically for the make and model of your vehicle to ensure optimal functionality and compatibility.
Transponder Keys
Modern cars are equipped with key fobs which can do more than lock or unlock doors. Certain key fobs come with a transponder chips embedded inside them that communicates with your vehicle to tell it to begin when the fob is in range. Key fobs with transponder chips cost more than traditional keys, as they require special programming in order to work. This is typically done by the dealership, however locksmiths can also program them provided they have the right equipment. A typical key fob equipped with transponder chip could cost between $150 and $250 to replace and program.
Hardware stores can duplicate the basic key fob for less than $50. However this is only useful when the original is lost. To open your vehicle, you'll need a traditional car key.
Check the battery of your key fob to find out if it's malfunctioning. These tiny batteries are typically easy to change, but it's essential to use a gentle touch so you don't damage the casing. You'll need to use a screwdriver or coin to open the key fob, and then remove the old battery, making certain to note the orientation. Replace the battery with the same orientation as your old one.
Key fobs that include a mechanical key with a transponder usually cost the most to replace and program since they have more complex features. These kinds of fobs are able to lock or unlock your doors, open your car remotely, and sometimes even open your trunk. These key fobs tend to be switchblade-style, which allows you to slip into the blade when do not need to carry it.
Key fobs are the most expensive. This is especially true if they're from a luxury brand and feature advanced security systems. Kelley Blue Book contacted dealerships in the US to find estimates for replacing and programming these kinds of fobs. They found that they cost between $200 and $500. Some dealerships such as those of BMW and Mercedes-Benz will only permit customers to have their key fobs replaced at the dealership.
Keys for Aftermarket
A key fob emits radio frequencies which connects to the receiver unit within your car, allowing you to unlock it or start it. There is a chance that fobs from the aftermarket that are compatible with your vehicle might not work. This is because the manufacturer of each type of vehicle uses a different version of radio frequency for its fobs, and if you purchase an aftermarket key that is not compatible with your particular model and make, it can lead to malfunction.
A professional locksmith can save you money and ensure that your replacement keyfob will be an OEM part. A locksmith can install the battery with a new one and program the key fob into your car's computer system for less than an auto dealer. However, the cost of a replacement fob can vary wildly based on the brand and features you choose to use, therefore it is important to research options carefully.
You can find inexpensive fobs in big-box stores and on the internet, but the best option is to buy genuine car fobs from a dealer. These are designed by automakers and have a much longer lifespan than cheaper alternatives. They are usually made from more durable materials, and have better security features as opposed to fobs purchased from the aftermarket that are susceptible to damage by extreme temperatures or even water.
Read the owner's manual when you buy a used or new car for instructions on how to replace a vehicle fob battery. A basic coin-shaped battery typically costs around $10 or less and you can swap it out yourself in a few minutes. If you have an electronic key fob, you'll need to bring your spare to the dealer to be programmed, which is more expensive.
Most locksmiths can reprogram keys fobs from aftermarket that meet certain standards that are set by automakers. A locksmith in Boston, for instance, says they're able to work with GM and Ford keys without problem. But they typically cannot use aftermarket fobs for Audi or other European models, and Genesky states that even a dealership isn't able to work on these types of cars, as the digital encryption of keys is not programmable at a retail level.