Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your car.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to change its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do much more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other device that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they get older.

If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys 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 can be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your car remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually available online. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, as even one door left open can impact how well the fob operates.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by cycling the locks, turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you would like to add to your car's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different, it will need special programming. This can only be done by an authorized dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the cost of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement. Dealerships might charge more than other locations and they may not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you a lot of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and car key FOB replacement a lot of cars include them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most commonly used car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to your car replacement key's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without the need for a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that customers will pay anything to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However you can save cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can also use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less than what you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be a bit tricky, though you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car has an old-fashioned metal key you can purchase one at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional. However, this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" which is similar to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the tools needed to do this.