"I’m surprised they don’t also require a subscription to use it."
A man loses his car key fob and faces the harsh reality of the cost to replace BMW key fobs at a BMW dealership.In a TikTok that’s generated over 140,600 views as of this writing, Craig (@craigthatgolfguy) reveals the absurd cost of getting his key fob replaced at a BMW dealership.
Are You Fobbing Kidding Me?
In the short TikTok, Craig is struggling to process the amount of money he was charged to replace a key fob.The on-screen caption reads, “Since when did BMW dealers raise their prices for key fobs to $856 when the only place to go to get a new key fob is a BMW dealer?”
Craig reveals that he spent $856 to replace the key fob for his 2015 BMW. Now, that’s quite a steep price to pay for a car key replacement.
“I [expletive] you not, it was $856 for a new key. Fob was around $700 and the physical click in key part was $149,” Craig commented.
This high cost to replace keys left Craig wondering how on Earth this is even possible.
“It’s a 2015, ain’t nothing fancy. How’d this come out to a grand? Are you fobbing kidding me,” he captioned.
“Cheaper to total the car and pay the $500 deductible to get a new one,” one TikTok commenter added.
“I’m surprised they don’t also require a subscription to use it,” another joked.
Are BMW Dealerships the Only Place to Get BMW Key Fobs?
In his on-screen caption, Craig writes that only BMW dealerships can replace the manufacturer’s key fobs. However, commenters informed Craig that this is simply not true.“You don't need to go BMW for that key,” one TikTok commenter shared.
“I’m a BMW tech. You do not have to get your fob at BMW. Literally anyone can program them. I don’t know why we tell people this,” the BMW tech confirmed.
If Not a Dealership, Where Do I Go for a New BMW Key Fob?
Many of the viewers stormed the comment section to inform Craig that dealerships aren’t the only place to get replacement keys.“Dude, go to a locksmith. It will be like $250,” one commenter suggested.
This viewer is correct. According to Edmunds, “A well-regarded locksmith near you may also be able to help provide a key fob replacement.”
“You can buy one on eBay and just take it to get programmed for less,” a second viewer replied.
“Program your phone as a digital key. I haven't used a key fob in almost 3 years,” another suggested.
As the viewers mentioned, using local locksmiths can be a good alternative. Additionally, online marketplaces like eBay, Keyless Entry Remote Inc, and others can be used.
Why Are Key Fobs So Expensive to Replace?
Seeing the bill when replacing car keys can certainly raise eyebrows due to the high price.The average cost to replace a key fob will range from $150-$500, and in some cases, even more, Kelley Blue Book reports.
These key fobs are pricey due to the advanced features they may have, including remote start, window control, self-parking, and keyless entry.
In addition to BMW, viewers mentioned other car brands for their steep key fob replacement costs.
“They wanted like $500-600 for my 2016 KIA. Like a KIA bro,” one commenter said.
“Audi is telling me that it will be $1,100. Guess I should have bought a BMW,” another shared.
“They’re all like that. Same with Land Rover. We know a guy that can program a fob on the side and he still charges $300,” a third replied.
No matter the brand, the cost to replace key fobs is high due to the advanced features they have.
Keyless Entry Remote Inc reports that these are the factors that make key fobs expensive to replace:
- Advanced Technology and Security Features
- Specialized Equipment and Programming
- Manufacturer and Model Specifics
- Labor Costs
- Convenience Factor
Motor1 has contacted Craig via TikTok direct message. The story will be updated if he replies.
