Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.

However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:

Battery

If your key fob stops working, the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other device that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function as they get older.

If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside of them that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to see if the chip can be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.

You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than buying a new key from a dealer. But, be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic keys, which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or need to replace it, you might be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to your car's system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob or a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that is only performed by a dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however you may be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to your location to do the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be enticed if you lose your keys to visit a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more than other locations, and they might not offer the best deal. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and could save you lots of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on a variety of vehicles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular type of car replacement key near me key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. They are typically found at an auto parts store or car key FOB replacement dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay anything to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at an affordable price. However you can save money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with a smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you may be able to purchase an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's guides or online. These steps can be difficult and you may need an additional key fob to complete the process. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car also has a traditional metal key, you can get an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacing.

For those with German cars, for instance those that come with the "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife could only find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.