How much does a car fob cost

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. 

• Home

• Questions

• How much does a new car key cost?

How much does a new car key cost? I lost one of the little remote keys to my car and I need to replace it.

The price of your new car key will depend on the kind of car that you have. Generally, a replacement key fob will cost somewhere between $150 to $600. Higher end cars will usually have more expensive key fobs than cheaper cars.

You can check with a local locksmith to see if they can replace it, or check with the car’s local dealership. They can easily order you a replacement.

If you ever lose your key again or can’t get into your car, Jerry offers customers a modern roadside assistance membership. Along with traditional benefits, you get Uber-like tracking for the status of your service and the ability to contact your service provider directly, for as low as $4.16 a month.

WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY

Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Browse More Content

Insurance in Your State

What Others Are Asking

Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry

Browse By Topics

Car Insurance by Make

Car Insurance by State

Replacing a key fob is a challenge these days. You used to be able to make copies at the hardware store in about 15 minutes. Now, the key fob replacement cost is significantly higher in time and money. Fortunately, Keyless Entry Remote Inc is here to help.

Types of Keys and Fobs

Basic Key

A basic key may look like the old keys you used to get at the hardware store. However, this model includes a security chip, even if it does not include remote entry. That security chip drives the price of key replacement.

Ignition Key and Remote

These also resemble physical keys, though the remote entry is often built into the key handle. Since the two components are still individual, the key fob replacement cost for this type of key is usually not astronomical.

Key Fob and Remote

This model of key fob allows for the push-button start as well as remote entry. That means a more complex circuitry inside and a much higher key fob replacement cost. These also require more complex fob programming to pair to your vehicle.

Key Fob with Keyless Entry

These fobs are the most complex and top the list of key fob replacement prices. The key fobs allow the bearer to leave the key in their purse or pocket. The car recognizes that the fob as it approaches and enables the handy push-button start.

Cost of Programming

The often-missed factor in key fob replacement cost is the programming. Key fobs do not magically pair with cars, and the more recently a car was made, the more likely it will need expensive equipment to replace the key fob price.

Unfortunately, the professionals who can do key fob programming know you cannot do it on your own. Therefore, the price may be something astronomical compared to how long the process takes. You will need to research if your car make, model, and year allow you to self-program the fob before buying

If your car does not offer self-programming key fobs, you can visit a locksmith, mechanic, or your car’s dealership. Typically, the locksmith and mechanic are more cost-effective choices if they have the right equipment.

The Total Issue

Ultimately, you could pay as little as $100 for a new, programmed key fob, or you could pay more than $500. The programming does make an enormous difference, as does the complexity of the fob you are replacing. That comes down to your car information, though.

If possible, avoid ending up in a situation where you only have one key fob for your car. Adding urgency to the key fob replacement cost never works in your favor. Instead, look for a spare when you are down to a single key fob to avoid a stressful situation.

How much does it cost for a new key fob?

How do I replace a car key fob?

What do you do if you lose your car key fob?

Can I buy a key fob and program it myself?