Cost to Replace Car Key Fobs

It can be expensive to replace keys that have been damaged or lost. The cost can be affected by several factors.

G28 Car Keys Links to an external site. send radio signals to your car's computer that allow doors to be opened and also start the engine. You may need go to the dealer to repair and programme it, based on the model.

Replacement Fobs

Car fobs are no longer just simple metal keys they are now sophisticated convenience and security devices. They are not impervious to destruction and can be expensive to replace if they become lost or damaged.

Batteries for key fobs can be bought at auto parts stores, electronics shops, and other retail outlets such as big-box retailers. These batteries, which are coin-shaped, are available in packs of four or more, are generally priced at less than $10. The label on the back of your key fob will typically identify the type of battery you require. After the old battery is removed, insert the new battery and then snap the two halves of the key fob together.

In certain situations, the fob might require replacement completely. Some high-end keys contain the transmitter required for specific functions, like window operation, automatic parking or summoning the vehicle to you. The transmitter is an essential element, and if it fails, the fob will not work properly even with a brand new battery.

A complete replacement is ordered online or in-person at a local dealership, which could cost up to $300. Lowcountry Ace Hardware is a hardware store that provides key fob replacement programming, duplication and programming at a fraction the price of the dealership.

While aftermarket fobs are an affordable solution, reliability is different from brand to brand and can depend on compatibility with your specific vehicle. Study the product and read reviews before purchasing a key fob from an aftermarket store to ensure that it will work with your car. If possible, go with an established, local locksmith to avoid any problems or unexpected expenses down the road.

A locksmith can also assist you in reducing the cost of a complete replacement by cutting and programming a spare key from another vehicle that is compatible with yours. This procedure can take up to an hour, depending on the model of the vehicle and make. Genesky, the locksmith interviewed for this article says that if a person is offered $350 by a dealership to get a fob replaced and programmed the same way, he is able to do the job for $200-$250 in his shop.

Batteries

A dead battery is the main cause of your key fob not working. Thankfully, replacing a car key fob battery is a simple and affordable process. You can buy replacement batteries for your car key fob from most hardware stores and large online retailers. The majority of key fobs are powered by standard button cells, such as CR2032. You can buy a set of them from popular brands such as Energizer or Panasonic for about $2-4.

To change the battery, begin by getting rid of the key fob from your car's ignition or unlocking it with your manual remote control. Next, look for a notch or groove on the back of the key fob, where you can place an instrument. Use a flat screwdriver to open the key fob. Once you have it open, locate the previous battery and replace it with a brand new one. Make sure you match the type of battery to the year and model of your vehicle.

Press the unlock or lock button to test the key fob after it has been charged. If it's still not working, the key fob may require reprogramming by a dealership.


While older key fobs are programmed by their owners but modern ones that have proximity sensors and transponder chips require special machines only accessible at a few dealerships. A dealer can cost between $50 and $500 to reprogram a key fob with these advanced features.

Many cars come with "smart keys" which require special technology to function as an antitheft device. These keys are difficult to program, and must usually be done by a dealer. In some instances a smart key fob might need to be replaced altogether in the event of damage or lost. This can be costly as the keys can cost more than $200 each. Some dealers offer this service for free as a offer to their customers, but this isn't always the case. Go through your owner's manual to find more information on how to replace an intelligent key fob. Also, make sure to keep a spare key fob in your purse or the center console in case of emergency.

Replacement Keys

A new key fob could cost anywhere between $50 and several hundreds of dollars. A variety of factors affect the cost such as the type of key fob and the car make and model. High-end cars or those with advanced features may require a more complicated key system, which can increase the cost of replacing them.

A car fob (also called a key-remote or a remote control) emits signals at a low frequency which is used to identify the vehicle with which it is paired. This allows the owner to unlock the doors or start the engine. Fobs typically need to be programmed to a specific vehicle to function correctly. Some dealerships will handle this service for free, while others will charge for a half-hour to an hour of work. Certain replacement key fobs can be programmed by the owner without the need for an authorized locksmith or dealer.

The least expensive replacement key fob is the standard metal key. These can be easily duplicated in a local hardware shop. Transponder keys are more expensive due to the fact that they require a match with the vehicle's immobilizer in order to function. Certain of the latest replacement keys feature "smart technology" that incorporates an electronic chip that communicates with the onboard systems. Locksmiths are able to cut a replacement, but they might not be able to program it for your vehicle.

Some replacement car key fobs are only available at the dealer, due to the security features and software systems used. This isn't usually a problem, as most dealers offer a variety of keys for cars, and they can be programmed at a reasonable price.

A few automotive locksmiths have gotten into the business of selling replacement keys for various popular car models, with prices ranging from $50 to $400. Consumer Reports warns that these "aftermarket fobs" are not always a good idea. Some are difficult to program, and others could be rejected by the car's system because of incompatible technology or software. If you lose your car key fob, it's best to try to prevent the loss in the first place by creating a designated spot for it, and then deciding to purchase a spare.

Dealerships

The cost of replacing car key fobs can differ significantly, based on the type of fob and the car model. In general, dealer-installed keys fobs are more expensive than those purchased from aftermarket stores. Key fobs that have an immobilizer chip that is required or that are part of advanced security systems are generally more expensive.

Most modern fobs work by emitting a signal which connects to a device in the car's computer system which then detects the radio frequency and authorizes the key to open doors or start the engine. Some fobs have a built-in display that allows motorists to view their fuel level and other vehicle information in an instant.

The majority of hardware stores can cut traditional keys but aren't able to cut or program fobs that require a unique immobilizer chip or code or a signal for remote-frequency. These types of fobs are usually required to be matched with the correct remote by a professional.

Most often, a dealer can program a new keyfob. This is particularly true for late-model vehicles. This is because the dealer has access to the proper programming equipment. Some of these systems are password protected, meaning only dealers with a license is able to access and use them.

Consumer Reports recommends that older vehicles look for an appropriate key fob online or at a hardware store rather than paying the high cost of the dealership. Some dealers say that aftermarket keys do not work on their cars' technology.

It's important to note that the majority of the expense associated with replacing the key fob isn't pertaining to the replacement itself. The most expensive component of a fob will be the reprogramming process that must be carried out to ensure that it will work properly. Before buying a fob, it's recommended to check your car's warranty, insurance policy, or club membership coverage to determine whether any of them will cover the costs of the reprogramming. If not, the cost can quickly mount up. In the meantime, it's a good idea keep a spare key on hand in case of need.