How Much Does a Locksmith Charge To Program a Key Fob

Most of us are very careful with our car keys, and we don’t want them lost or stolen. However, many of us don’t know what to do if our car key fob gets lost or stolen. Losing a key fob can be one of the most frustrating things to happen on a Monday morning. It usually happens at the worst possible time and can halt you in your tracks. That’s especially true if you live in a big city, like Denver, where you don’t have access to your local dealership. So how much does a locksmith charge to program a key fob?

The actual cost of a key fob program through a locksmith depends on several factors.

Type of key fob

The type of key fob determines the Auto key programming cost. Following are the key fob types.

Primary key

A primary key locks and unlocks all the car door locks and has a security chip feature. It is also knowns as a transmitter. The key fob is an integral part of the key set. The cost of replacing a key fob remote can range from $50 to over $100, depending on the automaker and the complexity of the design.

But there is a way around this fee. This depends on the car model and the design of the key itself. Most key fobs need to be programmed with a specific combination of button presses on the remote and key turns in the ignition before use. Before going to a dealership, check its manual because some manuals have instructions for programming a key fob.

Transponder key

Transponder keys represent the key fob’s head. The transponder key sends a signal to the ignition to start the vehicle. If you use the wrong key, the car will not start. The primary difference between a transponder key and a basic key is a chip inside the key. The chip itself is responsible for starting the key or not. The latest model and makes of cars key fob and transponder key come altoghether and increase the replacement prices of the key. Replacement cost depends on the make and model of the car.

Laser Cut key

The laser-cut key will be much thicker than a primary key.

The shank of a laser-cut key will be thicker than a basic key. It also represents some hollows on the key design. The equipment used to cut a laser-cut key is costly, and that’s why programming this key is way more expensive.

The laser-cut key has a transponder built-in, and it has to be programmed before it is used. You can visit a dealer nearby to replace your key, but it could cost a heavy amount. If you replace or reprogram your key with a local locksmith, it would be affordable for you.

Switchable key

The switchblade gets its name because you can fold the key into the fob when not using it.

When you are ready to use the key again, press the button, and the key will pop out, like a switchblade. You can purchase all of the pieces you need to create a switchblade key separately.

The shank of this key can be replaced for around at a cost-efficient price, which is cheaper than most. But, replacing the key and the fob will cost more in total. Switchblade keys over time will be worn down due to the constant opening and closing of the key.

And now and then, you may find yourself opening and closing the key without thinking about it. The hinge can become worn down and break without a moment’s notice. Which means the key and the outer shell will need to be replaced.

Make and model of the car you have

The key features of the fob depend on the make and model of your car. It is highly beneficial to get your key fob programmed for security purposes. Replacing your key fob may be costly, but it is necessary for your and your vehicle’s security.

Cost of locksmith in your area

The cost of key fob programming also depends on your town’s average locksmith service cost. Maybe you will find services expensive, but keep in mind that getting the locksmith’s services is still very cheap than getting it done at a vehicle dealership.

To Wrap up

Fob programming isn’t a difficult task, but it can be tricky if you’re doing it by yourself. If you live in Denver and want your key fob programmed, look no further than professionals at Emergency Locksmith. We provide immediate services at affordable rates.