Hear from Our Customers
Your key fob dies right when you need your car most. The dealership wants $400 and three days to order parts. Meanwhile, you’re juggling rides to work and wondering why something so small costs so much.
We program replacement key fobs on-site in about 30 minutes for roughly half the dealer price. You call, we come to you, and you’re driving again before most people finish waiting on hold with service departments. No appointments that don’t fit your schedule. No leaving your car overnight. No surprise fees.
This is how key fob replacement should work – fast, fair, and without the hassle.
Four generations of McCauslands have been getting people back into their cars since the 1800s. Today we run the largest locksmith operation in the Delaware Valley, with the diagnostic equipment and expertise to handle everything from basic Honda fobs to BMW smart keys.
Saint Davids residents choose us because we understand the area. You’re dealing with Main Line traffic, tight parking situations, and expensive vehicles that need proper service. We stock OEM-compatible parts, show up when promised, and charge exactly what we quote.
When your family has been in business for 140 years, you learn that every job matters. Your reputation is built one satisfied customer at a time.
First, we test whether you actually need a new key fob or just a battery replacement. Many people spend hundreds on replacement when a $5 battery would fix the problem. If you do need replacement, we connect our diagnostic computer to your vehicle’s system.
The programming process syncs your new key fob with your car’s security system. We test every function – lock, unlock, trunk, panic button – to ensure everything communicates properly. For luxury vehicles with proximity sensors and push-button start, we use specialized equipment that most locksmiths don’t have.
You watch the entire process and drive away with a properly programmed key fob that works exactly like the original. We also show you the simple battery replacement process so you can handle that yourself next time.
Ready to get started?
Every key fob replacement includes programming, full function testing, and battery replacement guidance. We use OEM-compatible components that communicate properly with your vehicle’s computer system, not cheap aftermarket parts that fail after a few months.
Saint Davids drivers put heavy use on key fobs with frequent stop-and-go traffic between the suburbs and Center City. That constant button pressing drains batteries faster than highway driving. We stock common battery types and can swap a dead battery in under five minutes for about $10.
The area’s high concentration of luxury vehicles means we invest in advanced programming equipment that handles BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and other premium brands. These smart keys require specialized diagnostic tools that most locksmiths don’t carry. We do, because Saint Davids has the vehicles that need this level of service.
Key fob replacement typically runs $150-$300 depending on your vehicle, which is roughly half what dealerships charge. Basic fobs for older cars cost less, while smart keys with proximity sensors and push-button start cost more due to advanced programming requirements.
Final pricing depends on whether you need just the fob, the metal key blade, or both components. We provide exact pricing over the phone based on your vehicle’s year, make, and model. No hidden programming fees or diagnostic charges – the price we quote is what you pay.
We program key fobs for virtually every make and model on the road, from basic domestic vehicles to European luxury cars. Our diagnostic equipment handles Ford, GM, Chrysler, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and most other manufacturers you’ll find in Saint Davids driveways.
Some brand-new models or exotic vehicles might require dealer-specific equipment, but that’s uncommon. We’ll tell you honestly if your vehicle needs dealer programming rather than waste your time. For 95% of cars, we can handle complete programming on-site with professional results.
Most key fob programming takes 20-30 minutes from start to finish. This includes connecting diagnostic equipment, programming the new fob to your car’s computer, and testing all functions to verify proper operation.
Complex vehicles with advanced security systems might take up to 45 minutes. We work efficiently but never rush the programming process, because mistakes mean starting over completely. You can wait while we work, or we can call when it’s ready if you have nearby errands to run.
We always test the battery before recommending fob replacement. Simple battery replacement costs under $10 and takes about five minutes. Many customers assume their fob is broken when it just needs fresh power.
We keep common key fob batteries in stock and can replace them immediately. We’ll also demonstrate the replacement process so you can handle it yourself next time, including which battery type to purchase and how to safely open the fob case. Once you know the technique, it’s straightforward.
Yes, we provide emergency key fob service throughout Saint Davids and surrounding Main Line communities. If you’re completely locked out with no working key or fob, we typically reach you within 30 minutes during business hours.
Emergency calls cost more than scheduled service, but we won’t leave you stranded. We carry blank key fobs for common vehicles and can program replacements on-site. For unusual vehicles requiring special parts, we can usually provide temporary vehicle access while ordering proper components.
Some comprehensive auto insurance policies include key replacement coverage, but many exclude it or have high deductibles that make claims impractical. Check your policy details, especially if you drive a luxury vehicle with expensive smart keys.
Most customers find paying directly is simpler than navigating insurance claims and potential rate increases. We accept cash and credit cards, and provide detailed receipts for insurance reimbursement if your policy covers key replacement after meeting deductible requirements.
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