How much does it cost to replace key fob

TORONTO -

Old fashioned car keys made it a lot easier to cut a new set, but with newer high tech fobs if you have to replace a fob it could cost you hundreds of dollars.

Before you replace a fob, there are a few things you should try to see if you’re current fob is still functioning and depending on your vehicle you may also be able to get an aftermarket fob a lot cheaper.

“The cost to replace the latest key fobs can cost as much as $400 or more depending on the brand. Then add another $20 to $130 to program the thing to work with your car and it could add up to $500 in some cases,” said Mike Quincy, Auto Editor with Consumer Reports.

Before shelling out any money for a replacement you should check your warranty, auto insurance or roadside assistance coverage to see if they cover the cost of replacing lost or damaged keys. 

If your car is less than five years old, chances are you'll have to go directly to a dealership that has the equipment required to program a new key fob.

However, if you have a car that is a little older, you can likely save money by purchasing an aftermarket key fob.

“You can search online for fobs based on the make and model of your car. We found a number of options on Amazon and Walmart, along with online auto part stores for sometimes $200 less than the dealer,” said Quincy. 

Many of these less advanced fobs can be laser cut and programmed by your local mechanic or locksmith, but if you're up for the challenge, you can also try programming it yourself. 

Quincy advises “you'll find all the instructions in the owner's manual. Just know that most customer-programmable key fobs will require two current working keys in order to program the new one.”

If you do end up needing to get a new fob at the dealer, the process is pretty quick, taking about 15 to 30 minutes. For added convenience, a mobile locksmith can replace many fobs, programming and cutting the keys right in your driveway.

If your fob quits working it may not need to be replaced it could just need a new battery. Most use a coin style battery that you can replace yourself by checking the owner’s manual. 

If it ever quits you should know almost all automakers hide a mechanical key inside the fob. There is usually a small button you push that allows the spare key to pop out, and that can help get you on the road until you get a new fob or battery. 

Now that key fobs are so expensive you may want to take part in the War Amps Key Tag Service.

It’s a free service that accepts donations. A tag is attached to your keys and if you lose them and someone finds them, they call the number on the tag and the keys are mailed right to your door. 

Losing your car keys can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you don’t know if they are temporarily lost or gone forever. At some point, you have to accept defeat and replace the keys if you want to use your vehicle. If you don’t have a spare, you’ll have to get an entirely new set of keys made.

Different Types Of Car Keys

There are several types of car keys and each will cost a different amount to replace. They are basic key fobs, transponder keys, laser cut keys, switchblade keys, and keyless entry remotes.

Basic Key Or Key Fob

Standard key fobs will be the least expensive to replace. The cost of replacing a basic key fob will vary based on the vehicle and the car manufacturer. You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $110 to replace a basic key.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys gained popularity in the 90s. They are just like any other key with one distinction, they have a chip in them that communicates with the vehicle. If the chip is not detected the car will not start even if the key is copied properly without the chip.

Transponder keys are either laser-cut keys or basic keys but have a chip in them that must be programmed into the vehicle otherwise the car will not start. Most locksmiths can program these keys and will cost 20% less than going through a car dealership.

On average, programming and replacing a transponder key will cost $150 to $225 to replace.

Laser Cut Keys

This type of key, as you may have guessed is designed using a laser that edges the key. You can tell you have a laser-cut key if your key is thicker than the average key and has a unique sideways carving. Laser-cut keys, like transponder keys, usually have a transponder chip in them making them expensive to replace.

Usually, you won’t find a locksmith that can replicate a laser-cut key, which means you must go through a dealership to replace them. This also impacts the price of the key replacement. On average a laser-cut key will cost $150 to $300 to replicate.

Switchblade Keys

The switchblade keys are the ones you’ve seen your friends messing around with. They are the keys that fold into the key fob but pop back out with the click of a button. You can replace these keys for $150 to $350 depending on the make of your car.

Keyless Entry Remotes

The keyless entry keys are the most expensive that you can get. These are the remotes that allow you to enter the vehicle and start it while the key remains in your bag or pocket. These vehicles don’t have a key ignition they have what is commonly known as a push to start.

These smart keys use a security feature that makes it difficult for hackers to replicate the code and start the vehicle. The computer of the vehicle recognizes the coded message transmitted by the key and starts the vehicle.

The cost of replacing a keyless entry remote will cost you somewhere between $250 and $600. Luxury brands tend to be the most expensive replacement option.

How Much Does Replacing A Car Key Cost?

Replacing a car key will cost anywhere from $50 to $600 to replace depending on what type of key you have and where you go to have the key replaced. Basic keys will be the least expensive, whereas keyless entry remote can be extremely expensive to replace especially if you have a luxury brand vehicle.

How To Get A Key Replacement

The best places to get a car key replaced include a locksmith, dealership, or hardware store. Dealerships will be the most expensive especially if it is a luxury dealerships. You can also get your keys replaced at AutoZone which is an inexpensive option.

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