Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer and the cost is according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working, the first thing to do is change its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that work with your car. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature but can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Some use 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 getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call a locksmith.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a much affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it's got fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere 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 remote key, turn off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks or turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.

Be aware that this reprogramming technique how.much is a replacement car key only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different, it will need specialized programming. This is only possible through the dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to complete the task for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your home to complete the job.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know about the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other locations and may not provide the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your car without using a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, Key or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now common on a lot of vehicles. They are a convenient method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.

Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap car keys replacement replacement fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.

If you own a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, particularly if the key fob includes a smart feature like automatic locking or remote start buttons.

Smart keys are utilized in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you might have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for key less than it would cost through a dealer. You'll still need 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 on their websites or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.

People who own German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife, might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason is that these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the necessary equipment to accomplish this.