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How Much Is a Car Key Fob Replacement? Key fobs can be used for a variety of functions, including opening doors or remotes. Some are more expensive than others based on the type. Certain models of cars require a visit to a dealer to replace the fob and program it, which costs about $200 for each car as per Consumer Reports. But you can also save money by visiting an auto locksmith or buying an unprogrammed fob online and getting it programmed by yourself. Basic Keys The cost of a replacement fob will vary widely based on your car's model and type. If you're replacing a standard car key fob that only unlocks doors, opens windows and activates the alarm, it should not cost more than $100 at most hardware stores or locksmith shops. If the new key fob has a transponder or smart-key system it's likely to be more expensive. Some car owners prefer to buy aftermarket key fobs online to save money and avoid dealer fees. These key fobs that are aftermarket are usually less expensive, but need to be programmed with your vehicle by an expert. A locksmith can typically perform this task for you, however the process takes longer. A locksmith might charge you extra to visit your home, work or business place or tow your car to their shop. cheap car key fob replacement could also program your own key fob from an aftermarket when you have the car's owner's manual. This technique has been effective for many car owners however, it can be difficult without a manual. There are step-by-step directions in the owner's manual or on the internet. You can also purchase laser-cut keys or “sidewinder” keys. These keys are more difficult to duplicate and offer greater security. These keys feature side grooves that are only made by dealers using equipment that is specialized. Switchblade keys are also available. keys that have a shank which tucks into the fob when in use. You can also purchase a smart fob that is a more sophisticated key fob. They have a microprocessor that communicates with the car when they are close. This system reduces the risk of car theft by allowing the key to start the car when it is within close proximity to its computer. The cost of these kinds of keys ranges between $200 and $500, dependent on the dealer and the location. Some dealers will program your smart key for no cost, whereas others will require you to pay a fee. Smart Keys Keys Key fobs today can do much more than unlock doors and turn on vehicles. They can also park a car for you in an area that is tight by connecting to the vehicle's sensors and making use of GPS data to determine the best place to park. This technology is becoming more popular in luxury vehicles, but it's not yet available in all models. Fobs also have a number of other functions that make them more valuable, including locking and unlocking doors, switching on the car's lighting, and allowing you access to the trunk remotely. It's a convenience, and it's an effective deterrent to theft. However, they're costly to replace or reprogram when they fail. Prices for programming and reprogramming the key fob vary widely based on the type of vehicle, the technology and the place where it is done. When choosing the right service provider for this task, it's important to consider these factors. Asking family and friends for recommendations or looking up online reviews can help you choose the most affordable price. If you're looking to purchase a new fob it's best to do so through the manufacturer or a dealer to ensure you're getting a genuine part that's compatible with your particular car. There are a variety of aftermarket fobs however they may not work as well or could have compatibility issues. Furthermore, some fobs from the aftermarket may require special programming tools that only a dealer can access. Take preventive measures, such as ensuring that your keys are compatible with the vehicle you drive and keeping an extra key in your car will help you avoid charges for reprogramming. If you're looking to replace your fob, you can save money by having it reprogrammed each time you replace it. You can also save a substantial amount of money by buying your key fob from an established source that sells authentic OEM parts. Many auto locksmiths suggest that you stick with OEM fobs since they're designed specifically for your vehicle's make and model to ensure proper functionality and compatibility. Transponder Keys Many modern cars come with key fobs that do more than lock and unlock your doors. Some key fobs are equipped with a transponder chips in them which communicate with your car to tell that it is time to start when the fob is in of the range. Key fobs with transponder chips cost more than traditional keys, as they require special programming to function. This is typically done at the dealership, but locksmiths can also program them if they have the proper equipment. A typical key fob equipped with a transponder chip can cost between $150 to $250 to replace and program. car key fob replacement case can copy the basic key fob for less than $50. However this is only useful if the original is lost. You'll still need a traditional key to unlock your car, however. Examine the battery of your key fob to see if it's malfunctioning. It's simple to replace these small batteries, but be cautious not to damage the casing. Make use of a screwdriver or coin to break the fob's key open. Remove the old battery and note the orientation. Next, insert the new battery with the same orientation as the original one. Key fobs that incorporate an electronic key with a transponder generally cost the most to replace and program because they are more sophisticated in their features. These types of fobs can lock or unlock your doors, start your car from a distance and, in some cases, even open the trunk. These key fobs are more likely to be switchblade style, which allows you to slip in the blade when you don't need to carry it. These key fobs can be the most expensive. This is especially true if they're from a luxury brand and come with advanced security systems. Kelley Blue Book contacted dealerships in the US to find quotes on replacing and programming these kinds of fobs. They found that they are priced between $200-$500. Some dealerships, like those of BMW and Mercedes-Benz will only permit customers to have their key fobs replaced at the dealership. Aftermarket Keys A key fob emits a radio frequency that is connected to the receiver unit inside your vehicle, allowing you to unlock or start it. While you may find aftermarket fobs on the market that are advertised as compatible with your vehicle however, there is a chance that they will not function correctly. The reason is that every manufacturer of automobiles uses a distinct radio frequency for their fobs. If you buy an aftermarket key, it might not work properly. A professional locksmith can help you save money and ensure that your replacement key fob is a genuine OEM component. A locksmith can install a new battery and program the key fob into the car's computer system, costing less money than a dealership. The cost of a new fob will differ based on the manufacturer and features, so you should do your research. You can buy cheap fobs at big-box stores and online but the best choice is to purchase authentic car fobs from a dealership. These are made by the automaker and have a more long lifespan than cheap alternatives. They're usually made of stronger materials and come with better security features than fobs that are sold by the aftermarket which are easily damaged by extreme temperatures or by water. If you purchase a brand new or used vehicle and read the owner's manual to find out how to replace a key fob battery in your car. You can replace a basic coin-shaped key fob battery for your car yourself in a matter of moments for less than $10. If you have an electronic key fob, you will need to take your spare to the dealer to be programmed, which can be more expensive. The majority of locksmiths will reprogram aftermarket key fobs in the event that they meet certain requirements established by the automaker. A locksmith in Boston for instance, says that they can usually work with GM and Ford keys without issue. However, they generally cannot use aftermarket fobs for Audi or other European models and Genesky says that even a car dealership can't work on those kinds of vehicles, since the digital key encryption isn't programmable at retail level.