How Much Is a Car Key Fob Replacement?
Key fobs perform a number of functions, including unlocking doors and remote start. Some are more expensive than others, depending on the type.
Certain car models require a visit to a dealer to replace fobs and program them and programming, which can cost around $200 for a car according to Consumer Reports. You can also save money by visiting an automotive locksmith or purchasing a blank fob online and getting it programmed by yourself.
Basic Keys
The price of a key fob replacement will vary widely based on the car's model and the type. If you're replacing an ordinary car key fob that unlocks doors, rolls down windows and activates the alarm, it isn't going to cost more than $100 at most hardware stores or locksmith shops. If your replacement key fob is equipped with an electronic transponder or smart-key system, it's likely to be more expensive.
Some car owners buy aftermarket key fobs to save money and avoid dealer fees. These aftermarket keys are usually cheaper, but they must be programmed by a professional to work with your vehicle. This is usually handled by a locksmith, but it can take longer. A locksmith might also charge extra for traveling to your home or work location, or may need you to tow your vehicle to their location.
You can also program your own key fob from an aftermarket when you have the car's owner's manual. This method has proven successful for a lot of car owners, but it isn't easy without the manual. replacement electronic car key fob can find step-by- instruction in the owner's manual or on the internet.
Aside from the basic key fob you can also buy laser-cut or "sidewinder" keys. These keys are harder to duplicate and provide greater security. They have side grooves only manufactured by dealers using equipment that is specialized. You can also purchase switchblade keys, which feature an shank that is tucked into the fob when not in use.
In the end, you can buy smart keys that is the most advanced kind of key fob. These keys have a microprocessor that communicates with the car whenever they are within. This system helps reduce the possibility of theft from cars by allowing your key to start the engine when it's within close proximity of the car's computer. These keys can cost anywhere between $200-$500 based on your location and the dealer. Some dealers will program your smart key for no cost, whereas others will require an amount.
Smart Keys
Key fobs today do so much more than unlock doors and turn on vehicles. Some of them can park a car for you in an awkward spot by connecting to the car's sensors and using GPS data to determine where the best place to park. This technology is becoming more popular in premium vehicles, however it's not available in all models.
Fobs also come with a variety of other features that make them more valuable, including locking and unlocking doors, turning on the car's lights, and even allowing you to open the trunk from a distance. They're a convenient and burglar deterrent, but they're also expensive to replace or reprogram in the event that they fail.
Prices can differ significantly for programming and replacement of a new fob depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the type of technology that is in the fob, and where you get the work done. It's important to weigh these aspects carefully when selecting the right service provider for this job. Asking family and friends for suggestions or reading online reviews can help you find the best deal.
It is recommended to purchase an original key fob from the manufacturer or dealership. This will ensure that you get a genuine part compatible with your car. There are aftermarket fobs, but they might not work as well and may have compatibility issues. Certain aftermarket fobs require specific 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 in your car can help you avoid some charges for reprogramming. If you do require replacement keys, you can often save money by having the fob reprogrammed at the same time it's replaced.
You can save a significant amount of money by purchasing your key fob from an reputable retailer that sells genuine OEM parts. Many auto locksmiths suggest that you use only OEM fobs since they are specifically designed for the make and model of your car to ensure proper functionality and compatibility.
Transponder Keys
Modern cars have key fobs that do more than just lock or unlock the doors. Certain key fobs come with a transponder chips embedded in them which communicate with your vehicle to inform it to begin when the fob is within of the range. These key fobs are more expensive than conventional keys because they require special programming to work. Locksmiths who have the right equipment can program them, however this is usually done by the dealership. The cost of replacing and reprogramming the typical key fob that has a transponder can range between $150 and $250.
A basic key fob can be copied from a hardware store for less than $50 however, it's only a good idea if you make a copy of it before losing the original key. You'll still need a conventional key to unlock your car however.
If your key fob isn't functioning correctly, the first step in diagnosing the issue is to check the battery. It's simple to replace these small batteries, but be cautious not to damage the casing. Make use of a screwdriver or coin to break the key fob open. Remove the old battery and note the orientation. Next, insert the new battery in the same direction as the previous one.
Key fobs that combine an electronic key with a transponder generally cost the most to replace and program because they have more complex features. They are capable of locking or unlocking your doors, starting your car remotely, and opening the trunk. These key fobs are more likely to be switchblade-style which allow you to slip into the blade when you don't need to carry it.
These kinds of key fobs are usually the most expensive, especially when they're from premium brands that come with top-of-the-line security systems. Kelley Blue Book reached out to dealerships across the nation to get quotes for programming and replacing these types of fobs, and found that they generally charge $200 to $500. Some dealerships, for instance those for BMW and Mercedes-Benz will only allow their customers to have a key fob replaced at the dealership.
Keys for the Aftermarket
A key fob emits radio frequency which is connected to a receiver unit inside your car, allowing you to unlock or start the vehicle. Although you can find fobs from the aftermarket that are branded as compatible with your car, there is a risk that they will not function correctly. This is due to the fact that the manufacturer of each kind of vehicle has a distinct version of radio frequencies for its fobs, and if you purchase an aftermarket key that's not compatible with your particular model and make it could result in malfunction.
A professional locksmith can assist you in saving money and ensure that the replacement key fob is an authentic OEM component. They can also install a battery and help you program the fob to your car's system for less than dealers charge. The price of a new fob will vary depending on its brand and features, so you should investigate.
While you can find low-cost fobs online and in big-box stores, the best option is to buy authentic car key fobs at a dealership. They are made by automakers and have a longer lifespan than other alternatives. They're typically constructed of more durable materials and have superior security features compared to fobs that are sold by the aftermarket which are easily damaged due to extreme temperatures or water.
If you purchase a brand new or used vehicle make sure to check the owner's manual to find out how to replace the car key fob battery. 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 for programming, which will cost you more.
Most locksmiths will reprogram aftermarket keys fobs that meet certain standards established by automakers. A locksmith in Boston for instance, states that they are able to work with GM and Ford keys without problem. However, they are not able to use aftermarket fobs for Audi or other European models and Genesky states that even a car dealership isn't able to work on these kinds of vehicles, since the digital key encryption is not programmable at retail level.