Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start 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 ways to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first thing you should do when your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do much more than unlock and lock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, [empty] however like any other 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 the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside them that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful 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 to operate the doors. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and that many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure you have new batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, because even a door that is left open could influence how the fob operates.

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 in a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require special programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however you may be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even come to you to do the job.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be enticed if you lose your keys, to go to a dealership 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 other options for getting your key fob repaired, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without the need for the traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most common type of car replacement key near me key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. They can be found at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchesblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry 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 cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay anything to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different way.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and can program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

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

Smart keys are used in all modern cars to guard against theft. They function by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you may be able to purchase a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's guides. The steps are quite difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key that you can get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be professionally programmed, however, which can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.

People who own German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs typically use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company with the equipment necessary to do this.