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Car Key Fob Cost – How to Keep Your Costs Down A car key fob is a small device that sends signals to the driver's vehicle. It lets them lock and unlock doors, start the motor, and more. Typically, these keys can be replaced by locksmiths for automotive use. However, a fob that requires programming requires specialized equipment, which means going to a dealer is usually the only option. Examine your warranty, insurance and roadside assistance to determine whether the cost is covered by your insurance or warranty. Key replacement is expensive Smart key fobs today can do much more than unlock doors and start vehicles. They can also control door locks and roll down windows. They can also set off alarms and track a vehicle using GPS. These devices aren't cheap, however, and can cost hundreds of dollars if they are lost or are damaged. If the replacement is equipped with the latest technology and features, it may cost more than the original. However there are ways to cut down the cost. The first thing to check is if the device needs an additional battery. The coin-shaped batteries aren't costly and are usually available at hardware stores or even big-box retailers, though they may need to be replaced separately in some cases. There are also online guides and videos that explain how to replace the batteries. Check if your key has the transponder feature or remote-start function. These require specialized equipment in order to connect and program the vehicle. If your fob has these features, you'll need to locate an auto shop or locksmith with the appropriate programming tools for your particular brand and model. These services are costly however, they're not as costly as buying a new key from a dealer. The year and model, as well as the make and model of your vehicle can also affect the cost of the replacement of a key fob. Certain cars with push-to-start features advanced keyfobs that are only compatible with the vehicle by a professional locksmith or dealer. This could increase the cost of replacing it. Certain insurance policies and roadside assistance programs or extended warranties might cover the cost of a replacement however, you'll need check the fine print. Cost of Replacement Fobs The car key fob is a high-tech device that can do more than unlock the door of a car or start it. They can also be used to deter theft. They're more expensive to replace due to this. It's important to always have two spare keys, especially when your vehicle is equipped with keys that are keyless. system. Cars equipped with keyless entry and push-button ignition systems come with an exclusive kind of key fob. They are not like the traditional keys made of metal that locksmiths cut to match your vehicle's lock. Instead, replacement for key fob transmit distinct signals to your vehicle that it is able to recognize. Fobs can be laser-cut from various materials, including metal and plastic. They also come with the shape of a switchblade, which is tucked inside when not in use. Fobs are also intelligent enough to connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth for remote locking and unlocking. Fobs are typically reprogrammed to work with your particular vehicle. This typically requires a trip to the dealership however, you may be able to save money by buying an aftermarket replacement fob and then having it programmed at a local locksmith. Some owner's manuals provide step-by-step instructions to reprogram an existing key fob, so you may be capable of avoiding the dealer altogether. The cost of a replacement fob is typically determined by the manufacturer as well as the kind of key fob. Fobs for luxury vehicles are more expensive than those for more mainstream brands such as Toyota, Honda, and Chevrolet. In addition some fobs sold on the aftermarket are designed to only work with specific models, which means they won't work with every vehicle. The days of having a car key made by a local locksmith are quickly disappearing. It is now possible to purchase an online retailer, or purchase one at a local car dealership. Alternatively, you might be able to get your insurance company to pay the cost, but doing so will count toward your deductible. Cost of Replacement Batteries A key fob, though an essential component of car technology, isn't indestructible. These small devices live their lives in pockets and purses and are exposed to extreme temperatures and moisture and, sometimes – as any other device – they're bound to end up failing at some point. Replace the batteries in your car key fob If the issue is due to a defective one or an issue that is serious. The coin-shaped batteries aren't costly and can be purchased at a hardware store, big box retailer, or even online. In most instances, changing the battery is a straightforward procedure that takes only some minutes. You don't require any special equipment or knowledge. The owner's manual or online videos will give you instructions. The type of keyfob that you have will also impact the price. The most affordable are traditional metal keys, while transponder key have an embedded chip which communicates with the onboard system of your car and could be costly to replace. Additionally smart keys are more advanced and can include functions like remote start and advanced security features. Some even eliminate the need for a physical key and come with LCD displays to show vehicle information. Additional expenses can be incurred when your car key fob is damaged or lost. If your key fob is stolen, you might have to pay for locksmith services or to transport it to a store. In addition, if the key fob has to be programmed for your vehicle's specific model and this is expensive. Take proactive steps to cut down the cost of key fob replacement. This includes the prevention of theft and loss by establishing a designated key spot and having a spare key and using tracking devices. These measures will save you money and time in the long term and ensure that your vehicle remains safe throughout the day. If it's time to replace your key fob, make sure you choose a service that provides transparent pricing, a fast turnaround time and dependable customer service. Cost of Replacement Programming Modern key fobs do more than unlock and start a car; they're additionally part of sophisticated vehicle security systems. They're also expensive to replace if they get lost or damaged. The good news is, most car warranties, roadside assistance and some insurance policies will cover replacement fobs. The cost of replacing a key fob can differ widely based on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as its features and components. A fob for a push-button start is different from one designed for the keyless system. Key fobs that feature an open-to-the-truck remote require a special programming to function with your vehicle's locks and features. We asked dealers for estimates on key fob replacements of high-end and popular models to provide you with an estimate of the cost. The results: Kelley Blue Book reports that dealerships charge between $50 and $150 on average to replace a key fob using both the remote control and transponder chip. This is true for the majority of brands. Dealerships can charge more in the event that the key fob is equipped with additional security features, for example fingerprint scanners or a tethered phone connection that allows you to unlock your car remotely. Some fobs feature keys that are laser-cut that is more difficult to duplicate. Some have a switchblade key, which has an shank that is tucked into the fob when not being used. Switchblade keys can cost as much as $200 to replace. Some dealers will program your fob free Some charge for an hour's work. Aftermarket fobs sold at hardware stores and big-box retailers, as well as online can be programmed to work with your vehicle for a much lower cost. Many car owners buy a spare key to keep on hand in the event of an emergency. replacement car key fob cost sell these fobs at a discount and locksmiths may be able to cut and program them at a lower cost than a dealership. The idea of carrying spare keys isn't just smart and convenient, it could also save you money on towing costs and other charges if you're without a functioning key.