Car Key Fobs Replacement
Providing key coding to the whole of London and nearby home counties
Car Key Fob Replacement and Battery Solutions
It is also stressful and inconvenient to lose or damage your car key. Particularly when it interferes with your everyday routine. And that is what our Vehicle Key Replacement service offers. This is a quick, dependable, and inexpensive way to replacement car key fob without any fuss.
A replacement key is more than just convenience —it’s security. One spare key will ensure that you do not get locked out of the house and can get the door unlocked when emergencies occur.
We suggest all drivers maintain one or more spares. The locksmiths will be able to produce a duplicate key in no particular time, which can give you peace of mind in the future.
Why Key Fobs Are So Expensive to Replace
Before the 1990s, car keys were simple. Any locksmith or hardware store could cut a duplicate for a few dollars. Today, however, most vehicles use electronic key fobs with chips and transmitters that communicate with your car’s security system. This makes vehicles harder to steal—but also drives up the cost of key fob replacement.
Types of Car Key Fobs and Replacement Costs
01.
Basic Key and Key Fob Replacement
Cost: $50–$100 depending on the automaker.
Programming: Some dealers do it for free, others charge for labour.
DIY Tip: Many vehicles allow you to program a new fob with a combination of button presses and ignition turns (instructions are often found in the owner’s manual).
Aftermarket replacement car key fobs are available online or from locksmiths, but quality can vary.
02.
Transponder Key and Fob Replacement
Introduced in the late 1990s, these keys contain a chip that communicates with the ignition.
Without the correct chip signal, the car won’t start.
Average replacement cost: $150–$300 including programming.
Dealers and most auto locksmiths can cut and program transponder keys.
Pro Tip: Consider creating a third spare key to avoid high emergency costs.
03.
Laser-Cut Keys
Thicker shank with fewer grooves, cut with specialized machines.
Almost always include a transponder chip.
Replacement costs: $150–$300 with programming.
Not all locksmiths have the equipment—dealerships may be your only option.
04.
Switchblade Keys
Feature a foldable shank that flips open at the push of a button.
Replacement costs: $200+ with programming.
Advantage: The shank and fob can sometimes be replaced separately, saving money.
05.
Keyless Entry Remotes (Smart Keys)
There is no physical key, only a fob which allows one to unlock the car by pushing the button and start the car.
Use rolling codes for added security.
Replacement costs: $250–$600, depending on brand and complexity.
Must be purchased and programmed at the dealership or authorized reseller.
Example: A smart key for a 2018 Honda Accord costs around $300 including programming.
Types of Car
Key Fobs
Car Key Fob Battery Replacement
Car Key Fob Battery Replacement
Not every problem requires a new key fob. Sometimes, you only need a car key fob battery replacement.
Most fobs use coin-shaped batteries such as CR2025, CR2032, or CR2450.
- Use a small flat screwdriver to open the fob.
- Note the battery orientation.
- Insert the new battery in the same position.
Better Safe Than Story
Modern keys are expensive—sometimes over $600—so prevention is key.
- Always keep a spare key fob.
- Consider ordering a low-cost backup key without a transponder (for unlocking doors only).
- Store spare batteries at home to avoid emergencies.
Remember: If you lose all sets of your car keys, the vehicle may need to be towed to the dealership, and replacement could cost up to $1,000.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you may be having either a full key fob replacement, a spare car key fob, or even a simple car key fob battery replacement. But being aware of your buying options can cost you less and save you stress. When you need a reliable solution at an affordable price, come to Vehicle Key Replacement. This place you can always rely on when it comes to automobile keys.
Losing or damaging your vehicle key can be stressful, but with our Vehicle Key Replacement service, you’ll never be left stranded. At VanLock Services, we don’t just replace keys —we also strengthen your van’s overall security with options like Van Dead Locks, Hook Locks, Slam Locks, and Statement Locks. For added protection, we provide replacement locks for Ford vehicles, repair plates or external shields, and secure air vent installations. We are giving you both peace of mind and convenience on the road.
Car key Solutions for the Following
Vehicle Manufacturers
Our car Key Services for the general public are only available in London & South East of the UK.
Frequency asked questions
Yes. Your shop can place an order and program another one and a number of reliable locksmiths can also offer replacement car key fobs.
It costs as little as less than fifty dollars on a simple fob and up to six hundred dollars on a smart key at the dealership.
Yes. AutoZone also sells generic fobs and keys, that is, they are not the same in appearance as the ones but are cheaper.
Absolutely. Replacing the battery in the key fob is easy and sometimes less than 10 dollars.
Yes, but you will have to show ownership. There are automobiles where the car must be in presence when cutting a new key.