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Car Key Fob Cost – How to Keep Your Costs Down A car key fob transmits an indication that allows the driver lock or unlock their vehicle doors or start the engine and much more. Typically, these fobs can be replaced by locksmiths for automotive use. A fob that must be programmed usually requires specialized equipment. This means that the only way to do it is to go to the dealer. Check your warranty on your car or insurance policy, as well as your roadside assistance coverage to see if they cover the cost. Cost of Key Replacement These days, smart key fobs can do far more than just unlock doors and start a car They also control door locks, open windows, activate the alarm and track the vehicle with GPS. These devices aren't cheap however, and could add hundreds of dollars if lost or damaged. Replacements can cost about the same as the original one if it's equipped with modern technology and features, but there are ways to keep your costs low. First, make sure that the fob requires only an upgrade to a new battery. The batteries that look like coins don't cost much and are usually sold at hardware stores or even big-box retailers. However, they may need to be replaced separately. There are also online videos and guides that explain how to replace the batteries. Next, check to see if the key has a transponder chip or remote-start functionality, which require specialized equipment to pair and program the vehicle. If your key is equipped with these features, you'll need to locate an auto shop or locksmith that has the required programming tools for your specific brand and model. These services can be expensive, but they aren't as costly as finding an equivalent replacement at the dealership. Another factor that affects the cost of a replacement is the year, make, and model of the vehicle. Some push-to start cars have advanced keyfobs which are only compatible with the vehicle by a professional locksmith or dealer. This can increase the cost of replacing it. Review the fine print of your insurance policy or roadside assistance program or extended warranty to determine whether they cover the cost. Cost of Replacement Fobs Car key fobs are advanced devices that can do more than simply unlock doors and allow you to start your car. They also act as a deterrent to theft. They're also more costly to replace than standard keys made of metal. It's important to always have two spare keys, especially if your vehicle has an ignition system that is keyless and has an entry system. Cars with keyless entry and push-button ignition systems come with a special kind of key fob. These keys are different from the traditional metal keys that a locksmith would cut to match the car's lock. Instead, they transmit unique signals to your vehicle that it can only recognize. Fobs can be laser-cut out of a variety of materials that include plastic and metal. They can also be equipped with the shape of a switchblade, which is tucked inside when not being used. Fobs can even be capable of connecting to your smartphone via Bluetooth for remote locking and unlocking. Fobs usually require reprogramming to work with your specific vehicle. It is usually required to visit a dealer, however, you can save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement key fob and programming it by an area locksmith. Some owner's manuals include step-by-step instructions for reprogramming an existing key fob, which means you could be able to skip the dealer altogether. The cost of a replacement fob is often determined by the manufacturer as well as the kind of fob. Fobs are more expensive for luxury vehicles than those for popular brands like Toyota, Honda and Chevrolet. Some aftermarket fobs only work with certain models and won't be compatible with all vehicles. Fortunately the days of getting a new car key cut by a corner locksmith are fading fast. You can now buy a fob on the internet or at a dealer. Or, you may be able to convince your insurance company to cover the cost, but this will count towards your deductible. Replacement Batteries Cost A key fob, though an essential element of the vehicle's technology, isn't indestructible. These small devices live their lives in purses and pockets and are exposed to extreme temperatures and moisture and, sometimes – as any other device – they're bound to stop working at some point. Replace the batteries for your car key fob If the issue is due to a defective one or a major issue. These batteries are shaped like coins and can be bought at an hardware store, a big box retailer, or on the internet. In most cases, replacing the battery is only a couple of minutes. You don't require any special tools or skills. Your owner's guide or online videos will provide you with instructions. The kind of key fob that you own also impacts the cost. Traditional keys made of metal are the most affordable, while transponder keys are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the car's onboard system and are more costly to replace. Smart keys are also more sophisticated, and include features such as remote starting and advanced security. Some smart keys can replace the physical keys and display information about the vehicle on LCD displays. Additional expenses could be incurred if your car key fob is damaged or lost. For example, if your key fob is stolen and you must pay for a locksmith service or have it towed to an establishment, these costs will add up quickly. In addition, if the key fob has to be programmed for the specific vehicle you own it could be expensive. Take key fob car replacement to reduce the cost of key fobs replacement. This includes preventing theft and misplacement by establishing a designated key spot and having a spare key, and using devices to track. These steps will save you time and money in the long term and ensure that your vehicle remains safe throughout the day. When it's time to replace your keyfob, select an organization that has transparent pricing, speedy turnaround times and dependable customer service. Cost of Replacement Programming Modern key fobs do more than unlock and start a car; they're also part of advanced vehicle security systems. It's expensive to replace them if they're damaged or lost. The good news is that many automobiles' warranties are basic include roadside assistance and some car insurance policies provide for the cost of replacement fobs. The cost of replacing a key fob can vary based on the model and make of your vehicle and also its features and components. For instance the push-button starter requires a different fob than a keyless entry system. Key fobs with remote-opening trunk buttons require special programming to work with your car's locks and other features. We asked dealers for estimates on key fob replacements of high-end and popular models to help you estimate the cost. The results: Kelley Blue Book reports that dealerships charge between $50 to $150 on average to replace a key fob with both the remote control and transponder chip. This is the case for the majority of brands. Dealerships might charge more when the key fob comes with additional security features, like fingerprint scanners or tethered phone connection that allows you to unlock your car remotely. Some fobs have a laser-cutted key that is more difficult to duplicate. Others have what's called the switchblade key, which has the shank, which is tucked inside the fob when it's not being used. Switchblade keys are more expensive to replace and may cost upwards of $200. Some dealerships will program your fob for free, while others charge for a half-hour's labor. For less you can program second-hand fobs purchased at hardware stores or big-box retailers. Many car owners purchase an extra key to keep at hand in case of an emergency. Some dealerships sell these fobs at a discounted rate, and locksmiths can sometimes cut and program them for less than a dealership. It's not just good to have a spare key, but it can also save money on towing fees and other expenses if you are stranded.