Cost to Replace Car Key Fobs
It can be costly to replace keys that have been lost or damaged. Several variables impact the price.
Key fobs transmit radio signals to activate the onboard computer in your car to unlock doors or start the engine. Depending on the type, you might have to visit your dealer to have it replaced and reprogrammed.
Replacement Fobs
Car fobs aren't simply keys made of metal, but sophisticated convenience and security devices. They are not impervious to destruction and can be costly to replace if they become lost or damaged.
The simplest replacement involves replacing the battery in the key fob, which can be purchased at auto parts stores or other retail outlets, such as big-box retailers and electronics stores. These coin-shaped battery packs, which come in packs of four or more priced at around $10 or less. The label on the back of the key fob is likely to identify the kind of battery you require. After taking out the old battery, insert the new one and then snap the two halves back together.
In certain situations the fob might need to be completely replaced. For example, some high-end fobs contain a transmitter, which is necessary to power window operations and automatic parking or summoning your car to you. The transmitter is a crucial component, and if it fails, the fob will not work properly even with a brand new battery.
A full replacement is available online or at an authorized dealer in your area, and can cost up to $300. Lowcountry Ace Hardware is a hardware store that offers key fob replacement programming, duplication and programming at a fraction the price of a dealership.
While aftermarket fobs are an affordable solution, their reliability is different from brand to brand and can be contingent on compatibility with your specific vehicle. Check out the product and read reviews prior to buying an aftermarket key fob to ensure that it will work with your vehicle. If you can, use a reputable locksmith in your area to avoid any problems or unexpected costs in the future.
A locksmith can also assist you in reducing the cost of a full replacement by cutting and programming a spare key from another vehicle that is compatible with yours. This process can take up to an hour, based on the model of the vehicle and the make. Genesky the locksmith who was interviewed for this article, says that if a customer is offered $350 by a dealership to get a fob replaced and programmed it is possible to complete the work for between $200 and $250 in his shop.
Batteries
A dead battery is the main reason for your key fob's not working. Thankfully, replacing a car key fob battery is a quick and inexpensive procedure. You can buy replacement batteries for your car key fob in a variety of hardware stores as well as large online retailers. Most key fobs are powered by standard button cells, such as CR2032. For about $2-4, you can buy a pack from popular brands like Energizer and Panasonic.
To change the battery on your key fob, remove it from the ignition of your car or unlock it with your manual remote. Next, look for a groove or notch on the side of your key fob that you can insert the tool. Make use of a flat screwdriver to break the key fob. Once it is open, locate the old battery and replace it with a new one. The type of battery you choose should match the year and model of the vehicle you are driving.
Once the key fob has an updated battery, test it by pressing the lock or unlock buttons. If it's still not working, the key fob may require reprogramming by a dealership.
In contrast to older key fobs which can be programmed at home by the owner, newer ones equipped with proximity sensors or transponder chips need special machines that are only available through specific dealers. Dealers charge between $50 and $500 to reprogram keys with these sophisticated features.
Many cars also have a "smart key" that requires special technology to be used as an antitheft system. These fobs are difficult to program, and must usually be done by an authorized dealer. In some cases a smart key will have to be replaced completely in the event of damage or loss. This can be costly since the keys can be more than $200 each. Some dealers offer this service as a offer to their customers, but it's not always the case. Go through your owner's manual to find more information on how to replace an intelligent key fob. Also, be sure to keep a spare fob in your pocket or center console in case of an emergency.
Key Replacement
A new key fob can cost you anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars. There are a variety of factors that affect the cost, including the kind of key fob you choose and the model and make of the car. The most expensive vehicles or those with advanced features could require a more complicated key system, which can raise the cost of replacing them.
An automobile fob (also known as key remote) emits low-frequency signals that identify the car to which it's mated. It allows the owner to unlock the doors or start the engine. To work properly, fobs need to be programmed to the vehicle in question. A lot of dealerships offer this at no cost, whereas others will charge for a half-hour to an hour of labor. Certain replacement key fobs can be programmed by the owner without the need for an agent or locksmith.
Metal keys are the least expensive type of replacement key fob, and these can often be duplicated at a local hardware store. Transponder keys are more expensive as they must be matched with the vehicle's immobilizer for them to function. Certain of the latest replacement keys feature "smart technology" that includes a computer chip that communicates with onboard systems. While many locksmiths have the tools to cut a replacement key however, they may not be able to program it correctly for your specific car.
Due to the security features and software that are included in the software, certain replacement car key fobs can only be purchased from the dealer. This isn't a major problem as most dealers offer a variety of car keys that can be programmed for reasonable prices.
Certain locksmiths for automotive are selling replacement key fobs that vary from $50 to $400. Consumer Reports warns that these "aftermarket fobs" aren't always an ideal idea. Some are difficult to program, and some could be rejected by the car's computer due to incompatible technology or software. If you lose your car key fob, it is best avoid losing it from the beginning by creating a designated spot for it, and then deciding to purchase an extra.
Dealerships
The cost of replacing car key fobs may vary widely, depending on the type of fob used and the car model. how to get a replacement car key fob -installed fobs are generally more expensive than ones purchased aftermarket. Key fobs that need a specific immobilizer chip or are part of advanced security systems also tend to be pricier.
The majority of modern fobs work by emitting a signal which connects to a device in the car's computer system, which then recognizes the radio frequency and authorizes the key to unlock doors or start the engine. Certain fobs might have a built-in display, allowing motorists to view their fuel level and other information about the vehicle at a glance.
While the majority of hardware stores can cut traditional keys, they are limited in their ability to cut or program fobs that require a specific code or an immobilizer chip or signals from a remote. These types of fobs are usually required to be connected to the appropriate 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 appropriate programming equipment. Some of these systems are even password protected, meaning only dealers with a license can access and use the systems.
Consumer Reports recommends that older vehicles look for an online key fob that is compatible or at a hardware store rather than paying the high cost of the dealership. Certain dealers insist that aftermarket fobs won't work with their vehicle's tech.
It is important to keep in mind that the majority of cost associated with replacing a fob is not for the replacement. The most costly element of a fob is typically the reprogramming procedure that needs to be carried out to allow it to work properly. Check your car warranty, auto insurance, or club membership to determine whether they will cover the cost of reprogramming. The cost of reprogramming may quickly increase if you don't. In the meantime it's a good idea keep a spare key in the back of your hand, just in case.