Dealing with car key fobs can be unexpectedly expensive, especially when you need replacements for your Nissan Leaf. Like many, I was looking for a cost-effective solution beyond dealership prices when I needed extra key fobs for our two Nissan Leafs. After some research and a successful experience, I wanted to share how purchasing OEM refurbished intelligent keys and using a local locksmith proved to be a significantly cheaper and faster alternative.
I decided to buy three OEM refurbished intelligent keys from eBay. The listing promised genuine parts at a fraction of the cost of new ones. It’s worth noting that they arrived with dead batteries, but the seller thoughtfully included a pack of fresh batteries, which was a minor inconvenience easily resolved. The total cost for three fobs was $194.85.
To get these keys programmed, I contacted a local locksmith. Skipping the Nissan dealership saved considerable time and likely money as well. The locksmith was equipped with an RF detector to test the fob signals and had the necessary tablet, cables, and Nissan software for programming. Using the OBD-II port in each car, programming each fob took about five minutes. The locksmith also expertly cut the physical door keys located inside the fobs, ensuring full functionality. The entire process for both cars was completed in under an hour, costing an additional $293.19 for the locksmith services.
Now, each of our Nissan Leafs is equipped with two functional intelligent keys, providing one for each driver and a spare. Having extra fobs provides peace of mind and convenience, especially for households with multiple drivers or for keeping spares readily available. This experience highlights that obtaining replacement key fobs for a Nissan Leaf doesn’t have to be a dealer-exclusive, expensive ordeal. Exploring options like OEM refurbished keys and professional locksmith programming can lead to substantial savings and efficient service.
