How Much Does A Locksmith Charged To Program Key Fob?

If you’re wondering how much a locksmith charges to program a key fob, you’ve come to the right place. Generally, locksmiths charge less than the experts at a car dealership for this service. However, it’s important to know that there are many factors that can affect the cost of key fob programming. 

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First, it’s worth noting that some key fobs are purposely made to be harder to reprogram for safety reasons. That may increase the cost of the service since it takes more time and labor. Additionally, some key fobs have a unique shape that makes it difficult for a locksmith to program the key without damaging the lock. 

Another factor that can influence the cost of key fob programming is how old the car is. Newer cars are usually equipped with more complex key fobs that require special equipment. A locksmith who has this equipment is going to be able to program the key fob faster and more easily than someone who does not. 

The type of key to be reprogrammed can also make a difference in the price. For example, a remote proximity key will be more complicated than an ignition-starting car key. Likewise, a key with a transponder chip will be more expensive to program than a basic key. 

One of the most common types of key fobs are transponder keys. They have a transponder chip inside of them that sends a signal to the vehicle’s computer to let it know which key is compatible with it. This chip helps prevent the vehicle from starting if it is inserted with a different key. 

While transponder key programming at a car dealer can range from $100 to $500, you’ll save money by having it done at an automotive locksmith. Locksmiths typically charge 20% less than a dealership for this service. 

When you’re looking for a reliable locksmith to program your key fob, be sure to choose a company that has excellent reviews and a great reputation. This is because they will have a high customer satisfaction rate and will do their best to give you the best service possible. 

You’ll also want to look for a company that offers an upfront estimate. This will help you avoid getting taken advantage of. 

Another good idea is to shop around for prices. Do some price shopping online to get an idea of the average cost of key fob programming in your area. This way, you can pick a company that has competitive prices and is willing to travel to your location. 

It’s always best to get quotes from multiple companies before you decide to hire a locksmith. This will ensure that you’re not overpaying for the service. 

Alternatively, you can try to buy the parts yourself and do the programming yourself. This can lower the overall cost, though it is risky. 

A locksmith can program any type of key fob, but the cost can be higher if it’s a complex or older model. You can also find cheap replacement keys on eBay, Amazon, or other online retailers. Buying these can also help you save on the overall cost of a key fob replacement, but it’s important to do your research to make sure you’re buying a reputable key fob that will work with your car.