How much does a dealership charge for a new key fob?
Key fobs have become an essential part of modern vehicles, offering convenience and advanced security features. However, losing or damaging a key fob can be a costly inconvenience. In this article, we’ll explore how much dealerships typically charge for a new key fob, what factors influence the cost, and some tips to save money on replacements.
What Is the Average Cost of a New Key Fob?
The cost of a new key fob from a dealership can vary widely depending on the make and model of your vehicle. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $600 for a replacement key fob. This price typically includes the cost of the key fob itself and the programming required to sync it with your car’s system.
Factors That Influence the Cost
Several factors can affect how much you’ll pay for a new key fob at a dealership:
- Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Audi often have more expensive key fobs due to their advanced technology and proprietary designs.
- Type of Key Fob: Basic key fobs with fewer features (e.g., lock/unlock only) are generally cheaper than advanced fobs with remote start, proximity sensors, or integrated touchscreens.
- Programming Fees: Dealerships charge additional fees for programming the key fob to work with your car. This process requires specialized equipment and expertise.
- Location: Prices can vary depending on your geographic location and the dealership’s pricing policies.
Why Are Dealership Key Fobs So Expensive?
Dealerships often charge a premium for key fob replacements because of the following reasons:
- Proprietary Technology: Modern key fobs are equipped with advanced technology, such as encrypted signals and rolling codes, to prevent theft.
- Specialized Equipment: Programming a key fob requires access to the car manufacturer’s proprietary software and tools, which are typically only available at dealerships.
- Labor Costs: Dealerships charge for the time and expertise required to program the key fob and ensure it works seamlessly with your vehicle.
Tips to Save Money on Key Fob Replacements
If you’re looking to save money on a new key fob, consider the following tips:
- Check Your Warranty or Insurance: Some warranties or car insurance policies may cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
- Visit a Locksmith: Many professional locksmiths can replace and program key fobs at a lower cost than dealerships.
- Buy an Aftermarket Key Fob: Aftermarket key fobs are often cheaper than OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) fobs. Just ensure they are compatible with your vehicle.
- Shop Around: Compare prices from multiple dealerships and locksmiths to find the best deal.
- Keep a Spare Key Fob: Having a spare key fob can save you from the hassle and expense of an emergency replacement.
Conclusion
Replacing a key fob at a dealership can be expensive, with costs ranging from $150 to $600 or more depending on your vehicle and the type of key fob. While dealerships offer the convenience of guaranteed compatibility and professional programming, exploring alternative options like locksmiths or aftermarket key fobs can help you save money. Always keep a spare key fob handy to avoid unexpected expenses in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take a dealership to program a key fob?
Programming can take anywhere from 2 minutes to 30 minutes depending on the type of vehicle. This almost always has to be done by your local car locksmith or dealership. Some vehicles can be programmed “on-board, which means anyone can do it if they follow a special programming procedure.
How long does it take a dealership to program a new key fob?
Somewhere in the 20 to 30 minute range.
Most modern car keys and fobs today have transponder chips in them which may require the key or fob to be programmed to the vehicle. The majority of vehicle keys and fobs are different for each automaker, model, sub-model, and year.
Why do dealers charge so much for a key fob?
The manufacturer charges the dealer a high price because they know people will lose them and need replacements. Therefore the dealer sells it for more (often exceeding MSRP) to turn a profit.
How much is a new key fob at a dealership?
The cost of replacing a key fob remote can range from $50 to over $100 depending on the automaker and complexity of the design. All key fobs need to be programmed. Some dealerships will do it for free, while others will charge for a half-hour to an hour of labor.
Can you program a key fob without going to the dealership?
A: It really depends on the car. With some, the key fobs can be programmed without any special tools, but others require one or more tools to do the job. As an example, I am evaluating a scan tool from Xtool, which can program some fobs that would normally take a trip to the dealer or an automotive locksmith.
Does AutoZone do replacement key fobs?
One of the best ways to prepare yourself and keep key fob issues from catching you off guard can be to have a spare key available. Look into buying a replacement key fob or key fob batteries at your local AutoZone today.
Can you reprogram a key fob without going to the dealership?
Yes, many key fobs can be programmed at home using the instructions provided in your vehicle's owner manual. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option. For more complex systems or newer models, however, professional assistance might still be necessary.
How much does a locksmith charge to program a new key fob?
between $50 and $250
While it's hard to give a universal estimate, the general cost is between $50 and $250 for reprogramming. Here's a look at some factors that can determine price: Fob Type: Smart keys with a transponder (RFID), keyless ignition, or other extra features tend to be more expensive to reprogram.
How much should I pay for a key fob?
The cost of a car key fob can range from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the factors listed above. On average, a basic key fob can cost anywhere from $100 to $250, while a more advanced key fob with additional features can cost $250 to $500 or more. Shop Around: Don't settle for the first key fob you find.
Do dealerships replace key fobs?
Key fobs, like the car keys themselves, can be replaced by a dealership or with aftermarket parts.
