Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership, which charges based on your 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 you need to do is change its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a specific sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other gadget that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse, they can stop working as they age.

If you're lucky 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 even big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and Vehicle ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call a locksmith.

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or require to replace it, you might be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has fresh batteries. These are cheap and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob for a time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off and switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be done by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to your home to complete the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Also check your new-car key replacement service near me warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and may not offer the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. These are usually located at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

If you have 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 isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

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

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you might be able to purchase a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership employs.

Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may require another key fob to complete the process. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase an extra key 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 component on both the key shank and the fob may require professional programming, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip" that is similar to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.