Cost to Replace Car Key Fobs
It can be expensive to replace the key fob that has been damaged or lost. The cost is affected by several variables.
Key fobs transmit radio signals to your car's computer that open doors and also start the engine. You may need go to the dealer to repair and program it, based on the model.
Replacement Fobs
Car fobs have gone from basic keys made of metal to sophisticated convenience and security devices. However, they're not indestructible and lost or damaged fobs are costly to replace.
The most basic replacement involves replacing the battery in the key fob, which can be purchased at auto parts stores or at other retail outlets such as electronics stores and big-box retailers. These battery packs in the shape of coins, which come in a variety of sizes costs about $10 or less. The label on the back of the key fob is likely to indicate the type of battery you need. Once the old battery is removed, you can insert the new battery and snap the two halves of the key fob together.
In some cases, however, a fob may need to be completely replaced. For example, some high-end fobs come with a transmitter that is essential for functions such as powering windows and parking or summoning your vehicle to you. The transmitter is a critical component, and if it fails, the fob will not function properly, even with a brand new battery.
A complete replacement is available either online or through the local dealer and can cost up to 300 dollars. Lowcountry Ace Hardware is a hardware store that provides key fob replacement, duplication and programming for less than dealerships.
Aftermarket fobs are an affordable option, but their reliability may differ from brand to brand. car fob replacement key depends on the compatibility of your car. Before buying an aftermarket fob, do your research on the product and read reviews to ensure it will work with your vehicle. To avoid future issues or expenses, it's best to use a local locksmith who you trust.
A locksmith can save you money by cutting and programming a spare key from another vehicle which matches yours. This procedure can take up to an hour, based on the vehicle model and make. Genesky the locksmith interviewed for this article, says that if a customer is offered $350 at a dealership to get the fob programmed and replaced, he can typically do the job for $200-$250 in his shop.
Batteries
The most common reason for your key fob to stop working is a dead battery. The replacement of a car keyfob's battery is a simple and affordable procedure. You can buy replacement batteries for your car key fob at most hardware stores as well as large online retailers. The majority of key fobs are powered by standard button cells, like CR2032. For around $2-4, you can buy a pack from popular brands such as Energizer and Panasonic.
To change the battery on your key fob, you must remove it from the ignition of your vehicle or unlock it using your manual remote. Next look for a groove or notch on the back of the key fob, where you can insert the tool. Use a flat screwdriver to break the key fob. Once it is open, locate the previous battery and replace it with a new one. Make sure that you match the type of battery with the year and model of your vehicle.
Press the unlock or lock button to test the key fob after it has been charged. If car key fob replacements doesn't work the key fob might require reprogramming by a dealership.
Contrary to older key fobs which can be programmed at home by the owner, modern ones with proximity sensors or transponder chips require special machines that are only available at certain dealers. A dealer can cost between $50 and $500 to reprogram a key fob with these advanced features.
Many vehicles come with "smart keys" that require special technology to function as an antitheft device. These fobs can be difficult to program and must usually be done so by a dealer. In certain cases a smart key fob may require replacement when it becomes damaged or lost. This can be costly since the keys could cost more than $200 each. Some dealers offer this service for free as a courtesy to their customers, however this isn't always the case. Go through car fob key replacement to find more information on how you can replace a smart 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 anything from $50 to several hundreds of dollars. The price is affected by several factors, including the type of key fob and the model of the vehicle. Luxury vehicles or those with advanced features might require a more complicated key system, which could increase the cost of replacing the key fobs.
A car fob (also known as key remote) emits a low-frequency signal that identifies the car to which it's mated. The owner is then able to unlock the doors and begin the car. Fobs are typically programmed to the vehicle to function correctly. Some dealers will do this for no cost, while others charge for half an hour to an hour's work. Certain replacement key fobs can be "on board programmable" and can be programmed by the user, without requiring the dealer or locksmith.
The cheapest replacement key fob is the classic metal key. These can be easily duplicated at an area hardware store. Transponder keys are more expensive as they need to be linked to the vehicle's immobilizer in order to function. Certain of the latest replacement keys come with "smart technology" that includes an electronic chip that communicates with onboard systems. While most locksmiths have the equipment to cut keys for replacement, they might not be capable of programming it correctly for your specific car.
Because of the security features and software, some replacement car keys are only available at the dealer. In general, this isn't an issue as the majority of dealerships offer a wide range of car keys, and they can be programmed at a reasonable cost.
Some automotive locksmiths are now offering replacement key fobs that vary from $50 to $400. However, Consumer Reports notes that these "aftermarket" fobs aren't necessarily an ideal idea. Some can be hard to program, while others might be blocked by the car's security system due to incompatible software or technology. If you lose your car key fob it's best to try avoid losing it at all costs by designating a spot for it and evaluating the possibility of purchasing a spare.
Dealerships
The cost of replacing car key fobs differs dependent on the model and type of your car. In general, dealer-installed keys fobs are more expensive than those purchased from aftermarket stores. Key fobs that need a specific immobilizer chip or are part of more sophisticated security systems are also likely to be more expensive.
Modern fobs emit a signal that is recognized by the computer system of the car. The key can then be used to open doors and start the engine. Certain fobs are equipped with an integrated screen that allows drivers to quickly see the fuel level or other vehicle information.
Most hardware stores can cut traditional keys but they aren't able to cut or program fobs that require a special immobilizer chip or code or a remote-frequency signal. These advanced fobs are typically connected by a professional using the correct remote.
The most common method to have a new key fob programed is to visit a dealer especially for late-model vehicles. This is because the dealer has access to the proper equipment for programming. Some of these systems have 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 retailer or a local hardware store instead of paying the costly price of an auto dealer. Some dealers insist that aftermarket accessories will not work with their car's technology.
It's important to remember that the majority of the cost associated with replacing a key fob isn't for the replacement itself. The major expense that comes with a key fob is usually the reprogramming that must be completed in order to make it function properly. Before buying a fob, it is recommended to verify your vehicle's warranty, auto insurance policy, or club membership coverage to see if any of these will cover the costs of the programming. The cost of reprogramming may quickly add up in the event that you don't. In the meantime, it's a good idea keep a spare key on hand, just in case.