Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge based on the make of your car.

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

Battery

The first thing to do if the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any gadget that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they age.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside them that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car, and that most require special equipment to program.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you may be in a position to program a replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off and switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the equipment to complete the work at less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to visit a dealer to get them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and they may not offer the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on many automobiles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay anything to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.

You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and they can cut and Programmed program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

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

Smart keys are utilized in most modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car 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 at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less money than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership uses.

Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's manuals or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though you may require another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even complete it all. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost car key replacement near me as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed however, which could add up 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 the "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company with the equipment necessary to do so.