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15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Ignore Cheap Car Key Fob Replacement
Cheap Car Key Fob Replacement

If your device isn't one of the most elegant "smart" models that integrate with advanced security systems for vehicles replacing it shouldn't be too costly. Comparative shopping is the way to go.

Most dealerships say they can't provide cheaper fobs due to the fact that they have to have special programming equipment that is compatible with the latest cars. There are ways to get around this.

1. Buy a new Battery

The majority of key fobs are clamshell-style and open along the seam that separates the two sides. They need to be opened before you can replace the battery. This requires a tool such as an abrasive screwdriver or watch knife. Use the tool to wrap around the fasteners of the fob case to create a gap and then slowly pull it open. Do not press the case. This could cause internal damage. The inside of fob cases can differ based on the model, year and make of your vehicle. Make sure to check the case or the owner's manual before buying a replacement battery. Fobs are powered by tiny coin-shaped batteries, CR2025 and. They are typically available at general stores or home improvement stores, as well as some auto parts stores for $5-10 per box. Most fobs only require one battery, but some, such as the Ford Mustang key fob, require two.

After you've removed the old battery, carefully insert the new battery in its place, ensuring it's correctly aligned and facing the correct way. Many fobs have two symbols, positive and negative on both sides It's essential to know which one is which. Snap the fob together. If the fob doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could require reprogramming by a dealer, suggests Yu of CR.

Some dealers charge as little as a few hundred dollars, while luxury dealers can charge upwards of $500 to reprogram the fobs of luxury cars, such as Tesla's crystal fob. Some charge a couple hundred dollars, whereas luxury dealers can charge more than $500 to reprogram the fob of some luxury cars, like Tesla's crystal fob. The best strategy for saving money is comparison shopping, as well as checking the cost of a used fob on eBay or your local classifieds.

2. Purchase a new key

Modern key fobs aren't cheap. They're more expensive than traditional keys and incorporate advanced technology and security features. Some even have LCD displays that allow users to control the car's parking system from the fob and include an inbuilt remote starter. Fobs like this are called "smart," and can cost hundreds of dollars to replace when you lose or damage one.

Although some people have succeeded in finding generic, aftermarket fobs on the internet that work with most cars Some locksmiths from the automotive industry recommend against it. The reason for this is that aftermarket key fobs can be difficult to program, and they may not work with your vehicle's security systems. Find key fobs made specifically for the make and model of your vehicle. This will ensure that the key fob replacement is compatible and works just as it should.

Some aftermarket key fobs can be bought in hardware stores, but should your car be older and has a basic key fob that does not have security features that are advanced, your best option is to go to a dealership. The majority of modern vehicles have a keyfob that needs to be programmed by a dealer using computer software.


The majority of modern vehicles come with key fobs that feature a laser cut key shank that folds down into the fob when it's not in use. These keys are more expensive than conventional ones and can only be bought at a dealer, who will also need to do the necessary reprogramming in order to allow them to function. Reprogramming may be free at the dealer in some cases. However, it's always worth checking first to see what will be involved.

3. Buy a new key fob

If your key fob is lost or stolen, then you'll need to buy replacement. Fobs are a part of modern cars' keyless entry systems and provide the remote control for a car's doors, alarm windows, trunk or. A basic key fob can be made for $50, while a more advanced model with chip transponders can cost up to $500.

Some dealers offer aftermarket fobs but the process of programming is difficult. Some websites will deliver pre-programmed fobs to your door in order to save money. Be aware that you need an active key to program a replacement.

The type of keyfob you'll need depends upon the make and model of your car. A simple key fob that opens the doors and rolls down the windows is standard in minivans, trucks and some SUVs. Certain cars come with a key fob with a switchblade design, that has a spring-loaded metal key that folds up into the fob when in use, and then can be released at the touch of a button. These are more difficult to copy and can cost up to $200 to replace and program.

Other types of key fobs offer various features, including remote start or more advanced security features. These typically cost more, and you'll be required to pay for a dealership visit in the event of losing one.

4. Buy a new key shank

The key fob in your car does more than unlock doors and start the engine. It also acts as a deterrent to theft and an additional security feature. The more complicated the fob, the greater the cost of replacing it if it gets lost or damaged. Kelley Blue Book recently contacted new car dealerships to see what prices they charge for a fob replacement and found that prices vary from as little as $50 to hundreds of dollars.

Most modern automobiles require a key fob remote which has a transponder chip in order to make the car start. These keys are the most expensive to replace since they need to be reprogrammed at the dealer with special machines that are only available there, according to Consumer Reports' Mel Yu.

Genesky, who owns a locksmith company in the Chicago area He has noticed that some dealers charge $300 or more for an exchange key fob. He can typically do the job at a fraction of that cost if he is able to find the right kind of key.

Key fobs are available in various shapes and sizes. The traditional metal ones are the easiest to duplicate but they are also the most vulnerable. Laser-cut keys, referred to as sidewinder keys, are more secure, because they have an unique cut that is harder to copy. Switchblade keys are spring-loaded keys that fold into the fob to look like the shape of a switchblade. The most advanced, sophisticated keys aren't actually a key in the first place, but a remote-like device that allows you to lock and unlock your car with proximity sensors or allow push-button starting.

Basic key copies start at just $5 for a metal only key. Key fobs that have proximity or comfort controls as well as chips can cost as much as $500. You can save money by purchasing an empty fob online and having it duplicated by an auto parts store or hardware store instead of the dealership.

5. Buy a new key

Modern key fobs do more than simply unlock and start a car. They can also control functions such as lowering windows or calling the car from a parking space. However, this additional functionality increases the cost of replacing an unusable or damaged fob.

In addition to the actual cost of the new key fob, replacements can also involve programming and labor costs. These costs can be very high in the case of an expensive model that is more expensive and requires special programming in order to work with the car's computer. The type of key you have can also affect the cost to replace your fob.

For keyless car fob replacement , a standard key that uses an old-fashioned brass or steel key cylinder could be replaced with a blank one for a much lower price than a fob equipped with a transponder chip. The cost of a new key fob may differ based on the material and whether it comes with a lock cylinder or no.

A push-button feature can also increase the price of a new key fob. It requires it be connected to an existing receiver to function. This feature is usually only available on high-end models. It makes them harder to take.

You might be able to find alternative options that are less expensive in an auto parts shop or locksmith to cut down on the cost of buying a new key. These keys won't come with the same features or appear like the original key that came along with your vehicle. These locations will also require the VIN number to create the replacement.

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