Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge based on the make of your vehicle.

But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do much more than unlock and lock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other device that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your purse and pockets they may cease to function when they age.

If you're lucky your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside them that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with the tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

If you're able to purchase an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on your vehicle model however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, be sure it's got new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob in a certain time period generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.

Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate and requires special programming. This is only available by an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the work.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations and they may not provide the best price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and could save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They're a great way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal your car key replacement.

The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. They are popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable price. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost car keys replacement cost, you'll need to find an expert to replace the item. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.

Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is hit. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security for car key FOB replacement less money than you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay an expert to program the fob, car key FOB replacement which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or online. These steps can be a bit tricky, though and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.

If your car has a traditional metal key you can purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the key's metal was not lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be expensive when you need to create more than one spare or if the key requires replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available from the dealer. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.