Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting the coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break down over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement car key fob batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.

If you can purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it you may be in a position to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors as even one door left open could affect how well the fob operates.

To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, usually about 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to the system.

This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different from the other, Replacement Key For Car Cost it will require specialized programming. This is only available through an authorized dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to do the job.

If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to have them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to 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 include them as standard features. They're a convenient way to open 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 attached to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at an affordable price. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.

If you own an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to engage a professional to replace the item. It may not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with an advanced feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and start it. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in car security for less money than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key needs replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" that is similar to a switchblade, can only be 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.