Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and begin your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of the vehicle.

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

Battery

The first step to take in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call a locksmith car key replacement cost.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for car key FOB replacement an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that it has fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within a time frame generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob or a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the job.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to have them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. These are usually found at an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are found in all modern cars to guard against theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you may have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be expensive when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key requires replacement.

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