Cost to Replace Car Key Fobs
It can be expensive to replace keys that have been damaged or lost. The cost of replacement is influenced by a variety of factors.
Key fobs transmit radio signals to trigger the car's onboard computer to unlock doors or start the engine. Based on the type of key fob you have, you may need visit a dealer to have it repaired and programmed.
Replacement Fobs
Car fobs aren't simply keys made of metal, but sophisticated convenience and security devices. They aren't impervious to damage and are costly to replace if they get damaged or lost.
The most basic replacement involves replacing the battery in the key fob that can be bought at auto parts stores, or at other retail outlets like big-box retailers and electronics stores. These battery packs are available in four or more costs around $10 or less. The label on the back of your key fob will usually indicate the kind of battery you require. After you have removed the old battery, put in the new one and then snap the two halves back together.
In some cases, however, a fob might need to be completely replaced. Certain high-end keys have an electronic transmitter that is essential for certain functions, including window operation, automatic parking or bringing the vehicle to you. The transmitter is an essential element, and if it is damaged, 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 as high as $300. Lowcountry Ace Hardware is a hardware store that provides key fob replacement programming, duplication and programming at less than the dealership.
Aftermarket fobs are an affordable alternative, but their reliability may differ from brand to brand. It is also dependent on the compatibility of your vehicle. Before you purchase an aftermarket fob you should research the product and read the reviews to ensure it will work with your vehicle. If you can, use an established, local locksmith to avoid any issues or unexpected expenses in the future.
A locksmith can help you save money by cutting and programming an additional key from a vehicle that matches yours. Depending on the model and make the process could take less than an hour. Genesky who was the interviewee for this article, said that if the dealership quoted the customer $350 to replace and program a fob, it could be done the same job in his shop for between $200 and $250.
Batteries
A dead battery is the most frequent cause of your key fob not functioning. Replacing a car keyfob battery is a straightforward and affordable process. You can purchase replacement batteries for your car key fob from most hardware stores and major online retailers. Most key fobs are powered by standard button cells, such as CR2032. You can buy a set of them from popular brands like Energizer or Panasonic for between $2-4.
To replace the battery on your key fob, take it from the ignition of your car or unlock it using your manual remote. Next, look for a notch or groove on the side of the key fob, where you can insert the tool. Then make use of a screwdriver, or any other flat object to break open the key fob. Once it's opened you can replace the old battery with a new one. The type of battery you choose should match the year and model of the vehicle you are driving.
After the key fob has a new battery, try testing it by pressing the lock or unlock buttons. If it's still not working the key fob could need reprogramming at a dealership.
While the majority of older key fobs are programmed by their owners however, modern ones equipped with proximity sensors and transponder chips require special equipment that is only available at certain dealerships. Dealers can charge between $50-$500 to reprogram a key fob that has these advanced features.
Many cars come with "smart keys" that require specialized technology to function as an antitheft device. The fobs aren't easy to program, and should generally be programmed by an authorized dealer. In certain cases, a smart key fob may require replacement when it becomes damaged or lost. It's expensive as keys can be priced at more than $200. Some dealers offer this service at no cost as an offer to customers, however this isn't always the situation. Check your owner's manual for more information on how to replace a smart key fob. Also, be sure to keep a spare fob in your pocket or center console in case of an emergency.
Replacement Keys
Getting a new key fob can cost anywhere between $50 and hundreds of dollars. The price is affected by a variety of factors, including the type of key fob used and the model of the car. Luxury vehicles as well as those with sophisticated features could require a more complex key system, which can increase the cost of replacing the key fob.
A car fob (also called a key remote) emits low-frequency signals that identify the car to which it is mated. The owner is then able to unlock the doors and begin the vehicle. Fobs typically need to be programmed to the vehicle in order to function properly. Many dealerships can handle this service for free, while others will charge for up to an hour of labor. Some replacement key fobs can be programmed by the owner without the need of an agent or locksmith.
Traditional keys made of metal are the cheapest type of replacement key fob and they can be duplicated at your local hardware store. Transponder keys, however, must be connected to the vehicle's immobilizer system in order to operate and are more expensive. Some newer replacement keys also include "smart" technology which includes an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's onboard systems. Locksmiths are able to cut a replacement, but they might not be able program it for your car.
Due to the security and software features that are included in the software, certain replacement car keys are only available from the dealer. car key fob replacements isn't usually an issue as the majority of dealers have a wide selection of keys for cars, and they can be programmed at a reasonable rate.
Some locksmiths in the automotive industry have entered into the business of selling replacement key fobs for a variety of popular models, with prices ranging between $50 and $400. Consumer Reports warns that these "aftermarket fobs" aren't always a good idea. Some are difficult to program and others could be rejected by your car's system because of incompatible technology or software. If you lose the car key fob, it is best to avoid the loss at all costs by creating a designated spot for it and considering purchasing an extra.
Dealerships
The cost of replacing car key fobs differs dependent on the model and type of your car. Dealer-installed keys are typically more expensive than those purchased aftermarket. Key fobs equipped with an immobilizer chip that is required or those that are part of advanced security systems are typically more expensive.
The majority of modern fobs work by emitting a signal which connects to a receiver in the car's computer system which then detects the radio frequency and authorizes the key to unlock doors or start the engine. Certain fobs are equipped with an inbuilt screen that lets drivers quickly see the fuel level or the vehicle's information.
Although most hardware stores are able to cut traditional keys, they are limited in their ability to cut or program fobs that require a special code or an immobilizer chip or remote-frequency signals. These advanced types of fobs are usually required to be matched with the right remote by an experienced.
Most of the time, a dealer can program a new keyfob. This is especially applicable to late-model cars. This is because the dealer has access to the proper equipment for programming. Certain systems come with password security, which means that only authorized dealers are able to access and use the system.
For older vehicles, Consumer Reports recommends trying to find a compatible fob at an online auto parts store or at a local hardware store instead of paying the costly cost of an auto dealer. Some dealers insist that aftermarket keys do not be compatible with their vehicle's technology.
It's important to keep in mind that the majority of cost involved with replacing a fob is not for the replacement. The majority of the cost associated with a key fob is usually the reprogramming that has to be done in order to ensure that it functions properly. Check your car warranty or auto insurance club membership to determine whether they will cover the cost of changing the program. If not, the cost could quickly increase. In the meantime it's a good idea have a spare key ready for the event of a need.