Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership and the cost is according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do 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 to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break down over time, just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it can be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

If you can purchase an extra key fob for an affordable price, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one you may be capable of programming the replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually available online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. These are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the function of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, Replacement Key Fobs For Cars usually about 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you would like to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is separate and requires specialized programming. This can only be done at an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the job.

If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other places and they may not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They are typically found in an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. They offer a broad selection of Replacement key fobs for cars keys, and are able to cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can search an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you will need to hire a professional to replace the item. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for less money than the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or online. The steps aren't easy and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional, but this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacement remote car keys.

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