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How Much Is a Car Key Fob Replacement? Key fobs can be used for a variety of functions, like opening doors or remotes. Some are more expensive than others based on the type. Certain car models require a visit to a dealer for fob replacement and programming that costs around $200 for a car as per Consumer Reports. You can also save money by visiting a locksmith or purchasing a blank key fob on the internet, and then having it programmed. Basic Keys The price of a replacement key fob can vary greatly based on the car's model and type. key fob replacement for car of hardware stores and locksmith shops won't charge more than $100 to replace a basic key fob for vehicles that can unlock doors, lowers windows, and activates the security system. If the new key fob comes with an electronic transponder or smart-key system, it's likely to be more expensive. Some car owners opt to purchase aftermarket key fobs online to save money and avoid dealer fees. These aftermarket keys are usually more affordable, but they need to be programmed by a professional to function with your vehicle. This is usually done by a locksmith, but it can take a bit longer. A locksmith might be charged extra for transport to your work or home location, or might require you to tow your car to their store. You can also try to program your own aftermarket key fob in the event that you have your owner's manual for your vehicle. Many car owners have found success with this technique but it can be difficult to master without an instruction manual. You can find step-by step instructions in the owner’s manual or online. You can also purchase laser-cut keys or “sidewinder” keys. These keys are more difficult to duplicate and provide greater security. They have side grooves that are manufactured by dealers with specialized equipment. You can also buy switchblade keys, which come with the shank which is hidden inside the fob when it's not in use. You can also purchase a smart key that is the most advanced kind of key fob. These keys are equipped with an embedded microprocessor which communicates with your car whenever it's close to it. This system minimizes the risk of car theft by allowing the key to start the car only when it is in close proximity to its computer. These keys can cost anywhere between $200-$500 based on the location and dealer. Some dealers will program the smart key for you free of charge, while others may charge fees. Smart Keys Keys Key fobs today can do much more than simply unlock doors and turn on vehicles. Certain key fobs allow you to park your car in a tight space for you by connecting to vehicle's sensors and utilizing GPS data. This technology is becoming more popular in luxury vehicles, but it's not available in all models. Fobs can also be used for a variety of other functions that make them more valuable, such as locking and unlocking doors, switching on the car's lights and allowing you to open the trunk remotely. They're a convenient and theft deterrent, but they're also expensive to replace or reprogram if they fail. Prices for programming and reprogramming keys can vary widely depending on the type of vehicle, its features, and the location where it is done. It is important to consider these factors carefully when choosing the right service provider to complete this task. Asking your family and friends for recommendations or reading online reviews can help you determine the best price. If you're planning to purchase a new fob, it's best to go through the manufacturer or dealer to ensure that you're getting a genuine item that's compatible with your specific car. Aftermarket fobs are available however they may not function as well or have the same compatibility issues. Furthermore, some fobs from the aftermarket may require specialized programming tools that only a dealer has access to. You can reduce some costs associated with reprogramming by taking preventive measures such as ensuring that your keys are compatible with your car and keeping a spare handy at all times. If you do require replacement keys, you can often save money by having the fob reset at the same time as it's replaced. You can also save a substantial amount of money by purchasing your key fob through a reputable source that offers authentic OEM parts. A lot of auto locksmiths advise that you only use OEM fobs because they are designed specifically for the model and make of your vehicle to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. Transponder Keys Modern cars are equipped with key fobs that can do more than lock or unlock the doors. Some include transponder chips in them that communicate with your car to tell it to start when the fob is within range. These key fobs are more expensive than standard keys because they require special programming in order to function. This is typically done at the dealership, however locksmiths can also program them provided they have the right equipment. A typical key fob that has transponder chip could cost between $150-$250 to replace and program. A basic key fob can be copied at an hardware store for less than $50 but that's only useful when you make a duplicate of it before losing your original one. You'll still need a traditional key to open your car however. Examine the battery of your key fob to find out whether it's not working. These tiny batteries are typically simple to replace, but it's important to be gentle so that you don't harm the casing. You'll need to use an instrument or coin to pry open the key fob and then carefully remove the old battery, making certain to note the orientation. Then, put in the new battery with the same orientation as the original one. The most expensive key fobs include both a transponder and a mechanical key. This is due to the most complex features. These kinds of fobs can lock or unlock your doors, open your car remotely, and sometimes even open your trunk. They are also more likely to have switches that allows you to tuck the key blade into your pocket when you don't want to carry it around. These kinds of key fobs are often the most expensive, particularly when they're from a luxury brand that come with top-of-the-line security systems. Kelley Blue Book contacted dealerships in the United States to obtain estimates for replacing and programming these kinds of fobs. They discovered that they are priced between $200 to $500. Some dealerships, for instance those for BMW and Mercedes-Benz will only allow their customers to have their keys fob replaced at the dealership. Keys for Aftermarket A key fob emits radio frequencies which connects to the receiver unit inside your vehicle, allowing you unlock or start it. While you can find a variety of an aftermarket key that are advertised as compatible with your car however, there is a chance that they won't function properly. The reason for this is that each manufacturer of cars uses a different radio frequency for their fobs. If you purchase an aftermarket key, it may not function correctly. A professional locksmith can help you save money and ensure that the replacement key fob is genuine OEM part. A locksmith can install the battery with a new one and program the key fob in your car's computer system for less money than an auto dealer. The cost of a brand new fob can vary based on its brand and features, so it is important to do your research. While you can find inexpensive fobs online and in big-box retailers, the most effective option is to buy genuine car keys at an auto dealership. These are made by the automaker and have a longer life span than cheaper alternatives. They are typically made of more durable materials, and come with better security features in comparison to the aftermarket fobs which can be damaged by extreme temperatures or water. When you buy a new or used car make sure to check the owner's manual for instructions on how to replace a key fob battery in your car. A standard coin-shaped battery costs less than $10, and you can swap it out yourself in a few minutes. If you have a smart device, however, you'll need to bring the spare to a car dealer for programming, which will cost more. Most locksmiths will reprogram aftermarket keys that meet certain criteria that are set by automakers. A locksmith in Boston claims, for instance, that they are capable of working with GM or Ford keys with no issues. They are not able to use aftermarket fobs for Audi or other European models. Genesky also says that dealers selling cars aren't able to work with these cars because the digital encryption is not programmed.