Car Key Fob Replacement
When you need to get a car key fob replacement, it can be difficult to know who to contact, what your options might be and the most important question, how much is it to replace key fob for car cost.
We’ve used our expertise to offer some advice when you are in the market for a car key fob replacement, what to look out for and some things which can help to reduce your replacement car key fob costs!
Universal Key Fob
A universal key fob is a car key fob which can be programmed to many different vehicle brands and models, think of the way that a universal TV remote works.
These universal key fobs usually have a standard shape and size and won’t look like your branded car key fob – however they will work in exactly the same way and are an extremely affordable option.
If you are looking for a car key fob replacement, consider asking for just a Universal key fob, whilst it won’t having any branding, it is the most affordable option and is perfect for those situations when you just want to replace key fob for car quickly.
Most Auto Locksmiths will have a universal car key fob ready on board to make a replacement car key fob for you, however there are a select few cars which these are incompatible with so it’s always worth asking your Auto Locksmith if this possible with your car and what your options might be!
Aftermarket Car Key Fob
An aftermarket car key fob or ‘lookalike key’ is a car key fob with the same or similar head design as your original car key. Whilst this key is unbranded, it will look more like the key you get from the manufacturer but at a significantly reduced price.
One of the more affordable options when it comes to car key fob replacements, an aftermarket car key fob is a great choice for a quick replacement car key fobs.
This type of car key should be something that is kept in stock on board an Auto Locksmith van, so you should just be able to get a aftermarket car key fob the same day from your local Auto Locksmith.
Original Equipment Manufacturer Key Fob
OEM car key fobs are a great option for those who want a key from their manufacturer without paying high end prices. OEM keys are manufacturer keys which are sold by approved suppliers and are programmed by your local Auto Locksmith.
These types of car keys can come branded or unbranded depending on the type that is provided by the supplier and may have to be ordered in by an Auto Locksmith so this might be the right option for you if you’re not looking for a car key fob replacement ASAP.
It’s always worth contacting your local auto locksmith to see what stock they have available and to get a price match against an OEM key and a cheaper more affordable option like a universal car key or aftermarket car key fob.
Original Manufacturer Car Key Fob
An original manufacturer car key fob is what it says on the tin, it’s a branded car key fob from the manufacturer of your car. Often this is the most expensive car key fob replacement option as it will need to be ordered in and then programmed but is guaranteed to be the same shape and have the car manufacturer logo on it.
Does Having a Universal Car Key Fob Devalue Your Car?
Getting a universal or aftermarket car key fob doesn’t decrease the value of your car, nor does it affect your car insurance. However, selling a car with only 1 key does tend to decrease the value significantly, so we would always suggest having a spare key fob, as this will also come in handy in an unfortunate situation where you are locked out of car.
There are more reasons than one to own a spare car key, so we highly recommend that this is something that you invest in. If you still aren't sure whether you want to spend your money on a spare car key, read our 5 Reasons You Need a Spare Car Key blog.
Replace Car Key: Price Match Guarantee!
Already have a quote for a locked out of car services? Bring us proof of the quote and we’ll match it!
Car Key Replacements with Keytek Auto Locksmiths
If you need a car key replacement or a spare car key, then call Keytek® Auto Locksmiths to help. As a mobile Auto Locksmith service, we provide an affordable car key fob replacement service to those in Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and the wider Dorset area. We can provide car key fob replacements on site no matter where you are. Whether you are at home or stuck on the road, call us to get our local auto Locksmith on the road to you.
As well as our competitive pricing, we offer our price match guarantee so you can be sure you’re getting the highest quality services at a reasonable price.
Are Universal Car Keys Cheaper?
Replacement key fobs cost will depend on a few factors like make and model of your car, however universal car keys tend to be the cheapest option.