Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and local unlock the doors and begin your car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer and the cost is based on your vehicle's make.

Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first step to take if the key fob you have is not working is to replace the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break as they age.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. While this is a convenient feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your car from a distance. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only possible at the dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost replacement car key, but you might be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to complete the task for less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even come to you to do the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships can charge more than other places and may not provide the best price. There are several alternatives for local getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most common type of car key replacement near me key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and they can program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. But that might not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start button.

Smart keys are utilized in the majority of modern vehicles to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option to buy the new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' guides or online. These steps can be tricky and you may need another key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional. However, this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key needs replacement.

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