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Cost to Replace Car Key Fobs With the latest technology in key fobs, it may cost a lot to replace your damaged or lost one. Many factors affect the price. Key fobs transmit radio signals that trigger the car's onboard computer to unlock doors or start the engine. Based on the type of key fob you're using, you might need to visit your dealer to get it replaced and reprogrammed. Replacement Fobs Car fobs have gone from simple metal keys to sophisticated convenience and security devices. However, they're not indestructible, and misplaced or damaged fobs can be costly to replace. The most basic replacement involves replacing the key fob's battery, which can be purchased at auto parts stores or at other retail outlets, such as big-box retailers and electronics stores. The coin-shaped batteries, which can be found in packs of four or more, are usually priced at less than $10. The label on the back of your key fob will usually identify 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 the fob may need to be replaced completely. For instance, some premium fobs have a transmitter which is required to power windows and parking or summoning your vehicle to you. The transmitter is a crucial component, and if it fails, the fob won't perform as it should, even with a new battery. A complete replacement is offered either online or through a local dealer and can run up to $300. Lowcountry Ace Hardware is a hardware store that provides key fob replacement, duplication and programming for less than a dealership. The aftermarket fob is a cost-effective alternative, but their reliability can vary from one brand to the next. It is also dependent on the compatibility of your vehicle. Before buying an aftermarket fob you should research the product and read reviews to make sure it works with your vehicle. To avoid any future issues or costs, it is recommended to work with an experienced locksmith in your area that you trust. A locksmith can also assist you in reducing the cost of a complete replacement by cutting and programming an extra key from a different vehicle that is compatible with yours. Depending on the model and make the procedure can take less than an hour. Genesky, the interviewee for this article, said that if a dealer quoted a customer $350 to replace and program a fob he could do the same job at a shop for $200-$250. Batteries A dead battery is the most common reason for your key fob not functioning. The replacement of a car keyfob's battery is an easy and inexpensive procedure. You can purchase replacement batteries for your car key fob at most hardware stores and large online retailers. Most key fobs are powered by standard button cells, such as CR2032. For around $2-4, you can purchase a set from the top brands like Energizer and Panasonic. To change the battery, begin by taking the key fob out of the ignition of your car or unlocking it using your manual remote control. Next, look for a groove or notch on the side of your key fob that you can place a tool. Then you can use a screwdriver or another flat tool to open the key fob. Once it's open then replace the battery with a new one. The type of battery you choose should match the year and model of your vehicle. Once the key fob has a new battery, try testing it by pressing the lock or unlock buttons. If it still doesn't work, the key fob may require reprogramming at a dealer. Contrary to older key fobs that can be programmed at home by the owner, modern ones that have proximity sensors or transponder chips require special machines that are only available from specific dealers. Dealers will charge between $50 and $500 to reprogram a keyfob with these advanced features. Many vehicles also come with a “smart key” that requires special technology to function as an antitheft feature. The fobs aren't easy to program, and typically must be programmed by a dealer. In some instances, the smart key may need to be completely replaced in the event of damage or loss. This can be costly as the keys can cost more than $200 each. Some dealers offer this service as a free offer to their customers, however it is not always the case. Check your owner's manual for more information on how to replace a smart key fob. Keep an extra key fob on your center console or in your pocket to use in the event of an emergency. fob car key replacement of a new key fob may cost you anything between $50 and hundreds of dollars. The price is determined by several factors, including the type of key fob and the model of the car. High-end cars as well as those with sophisticated features may require a more complex key system, increasing the cost of replacing the key fob. A car fob (also called a key-remote or a remote control) emits a signal with a low-frequency that identifies the vehicle to the vehicle it is linked. The owner is able to open the doors and then start the vehicle. To function properly, fobs must be programmed to the vehicle in question. A lot of dealerships offer this service for no cost, while others will charge for up to an hour of labor. Certain replacement key fobs can be programmed by the owner without the need of an agent or locksmith. Metal keys are the cheapest kind of replacement key fob and are often duplicated at your local hardware store. Transponder keys are more expensive because they require a match with the vehicle's immobilizer for them to function. Some replacement keys include “smart” technology which includes an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's onboard systems. Most locksmiths can make a replacement key, but they might not be able to program it to work with your car. Due to the security features and software due to the security and software, some replacement car keys can only be purchased from the dealer. This isn't a major problem as most dealers offer several car keys that can be programmed for reasonable prices. Some automotive locksmiths are now selling replacement keys, which range from $50 to $400. Consumer Reports warns that these “aftermarket fobs” are not always an ideal idea. Some can be hard to program, and some might be blocked by the car's security system due to incompatible software or technology. It is best to avoid losing your car key fob by putting it in a designated location and purchasing an extra. Dealerships The cost of replacing car key fobs differs according to the model and type of your vehicle. Dealer-installed fobs are generally more expensive than ones purchased from the aftermarket. Key fobs that require an immobilizer chip or are part of advanced security systems are also likely to be more expensive. Most modern fobs work by emitting a signal which connects to a device in the car's computer system, which recognizes the radio frequency and allows the key to unlock doors or start the engine. Certain fobs are equipped with an integrated screen that lets drivers quickly see the fuel level or vehicle information. While most hardware stores can cut traditional keys, they're limited in their ability to cut or program fobs that require a special code, an immobilizer chip, or remote-frequency signals. These kinds of fobs typically need to be connected to the appropriate remote by an expert. Most often, a dealer can program the new keyfob. This is especially applicable to late-model cars. The dealer has the necessary equipment for programming. Some of these systems are even secured by passwords, which means only dealers with a license is able to access and use them. For older vehicles, Consumer Reports recommends trying to find a compatible fob from an online auto parts store or at a local hardware store instead of paying the high cost of an auto dealer. Some dealers say that aftermarket keys do not work on their cars' technology. It is important to keep it in mind that the majority of cost involved with replacing a fob's components is not for the replacement. The most expensive component of a fob is usually the reprogramming process that has to be carried out to ensure that it will work properly. Check your car warranty, auto insurance, or club membership to see whether they will cover the cost of the reprogramming. If not, the cost could quickly increase. In the meantime, it's always a good idea to have a spare key ready, just in case.