Cost to Replace Car Key Fobs
It is costly to replace keys that have been damaged or lost. Many factors affect the price.
Key fobs send radio signals that trigger the car's onboard computer to unlock doors or start the engine. Depending on the type you have, you may need visit a dealer to get it replaced and reprogrammed.
Replacement Fobs
Car fobs are no longer just keys made of metal, but sophisticated convenience and security devices. They are not impervious to destruction and can be costly to replace if they get damaged or lost.
The simplest replacement involves replacing the battery of the key fob and can be purchased at auto parts stores, or at other retail outlets, such as electronics stores and big-box retailers. These coin-shaped batteries, which are available in packs of four or more, are usually priced at less than $10. The label on the back of your key fob will typically indicate the type of battery you require. After the old battery has been removed, insert the new battery and snap the two halves of the key fob back together.
In some cases the fob may require to be replaced completely. For instance, some premium fobs contain a transmitter, which is required for functions like powering windows, and also for automatic parking or summoning your car to you. The transmitter is a crucial component, and if it fails, the fob will not perform as it should, even with a brand new battery.
A complete replacement is ordered online or in person at a local dealership which can cost up to $300. Lowcountry Ace Hardware is a hardware store that provides key fob replacement, duplication and programming for a fraction the price of dealerships.
While aftermarket fobs offer an affordable solution, reliability is different from brand to brand and can be contingent on the compatibility of your particular car. Before buying an aftermarket fob, research the product and read reviews to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle. To avoid issues in the future or costs, it is recommended to work with an experienced locksmith in your area that you can trust.
A locksmith can also assist you in reducing the cost of a complete replacement by cutting and programming the spare key of another vehicle that matches yours. Depending on the make and model, this process can take less than an hour. Genesky who was interviewed for this article, said that if a dealer quoted customers $350 to replace and program a fob it could be done the same thing in his shop for between $200 and $250.
Batteries
The most frequent reason for your key fob to stop functioning is an inactive battery. Replacing a car keyfob battery is a straightforward and affordable procedure. You can purchase replacement batteries for your car key fob from most hardware stores and major online retailers. The majority of key fobs are powered by standard button cells, including CR2032. You can get a pack of them from well-known brands like Energizer or Panasonic for around $2-4.
To change the battery, start by taking the key fob out of the ignition of your vehicle or unlocking it with your manual remote control. Then, look for a notch or groove on the back of your key fob where you can insert an instrument. Then make use of a screwdriver, or any other flat object to pry open the key fob. Once it's opened, replace the old battery with a new one. Make sure that you match the battery type to the model and year of your vehicle.
Press the unlock or lock button to test the key fob after it has been charged. If replacement auto key fob fob doesn't work it could need to be reprogrammed at a dealer.
While most older key fobs can be programmed by the owner but modern ones that have transponder chips and proximity sensors require special equipment that is only available at certain dealerships. Dealers will charge between $50-$500 to reprogram a key fob that has these advanced features.
Many cars also come with a "smart key" that requires special technology to serve as an antitheft device. The fobs aren't easy to program and usually must be programmed by an authorized dealer. In some instances, a smart key fob will need to be replaced altogether when it becomes damaged or lost. It's expensive, as the keys can cost more than $200. Some dealers will provide this service at no cost as an incentive to their customers, but this isn't always the case. Go through your owner's manual to find more details on how to replace an intelligent key fob. Also, make sure to keep a spare fob in your pocket or center console for emergencies.
Key Replacement
A new key fob can cost you anywhere between $50 and hundreds of dollars. A variety of factors affect the cost that determine the cost, including the type of key fob used and the car make and model. The most expensive vehicles and those with more advanced features may require a more complex key system, increasing the cost of replacing them.
An automobile fob (also called a key remote) emits an low-frequency signal which identifies the vehicle to which it's mated. It allows the owner to unlock the doors or start the engine. For the fobs to function properly, they require programming specifically for the vehicle. Some dealerships will do this for free while others charge for half-hour to an hour's work. Certain replacement key fobs may be programmed by the owner without the need of a dealer or locksmith.
The cheapest replacement key fob is the classic metal key. They can be duplicated in a local hardware shop. Transponder keys must be matched to the vehicle's immobilizer system in order to function, and these are much more expensive. Certain of the latest replacement keys come with "smart technology" which includes a computer chip that communicates with the onboard systems. Most locksmiths can cut a replacement, however they might not be able program it for your vehicle.
Because of the software and security features, some replacement car key fobs are only available at the dealer. This isn't usually an issue, since most dealerships offer a wide range of keys for cars, and they can be programmed at a reasonable price.
A few automotive locksmiths have started a business of selling replacement keys for many popular car models, with prices ranging between $50 and $400. Consumer Reports warns that these "aftermarket fobs" aren't always an excellent idea. Some are difficult to program, and others could be rejected by your car's security system because of incompatible technology or software. If you lose your car key fob, it's best to try avoid losing it in the first place by identifying a place for it and evaluating the possibility of purchasing an extra.
Dealerships
The cost of replacing car key fobs is different according to the model and type of your vehicle. In general, dealer-installed key fobs are more expensive than those purchased from aftermarket stores. Key fobs that require a special immobilizer chip or are part of sophisticated security systems are also likely to be more expensive.
The majority of modern fobs function by emitting a signal that connects to a receiver in the car's computer system which recognizes the radio frequency and allows the key to unlock doors or start the engine. Certain fobs might have a built-in display that allows motorists to view their fuel level or other vehicle information at glance.
Most hardware stores can cut traditional keys but can't cut or program fobs that require a unique code, immobilizer chip, or a signal for remote-frequency. These advanced fobs are typically fitted by a professional who has the right remote.
The most common method to get a new key fob programmed is to visit a dealership particularly for cars with a recent model. replacement auto key fob has the necessary equipment for programming. Some of these systems are password protected, meaning only dealers with a license is able to access and use these systems.
Consumer Reports recommends that older cars search for an online key fob that is compatible or at a hardware store rather than shelling out the price of an auto dealer. Some dealers insist that aftermarket keys do not be compatible with their vehicle's technology.
It is important to keep it in mind that the majority of cost involved with replacing a fob isn't for the replacement. The major expense that comes with the replacement of a key fob will be the reprogramming that must be done in order to make it work correctly. Check your car warranty or auto insurance club membership to see whether they will cover the cost of the reprogramming. If not, the expense could quickly add up. It's a good idea to keep a spare set of keys in your possession in case.