Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and begin your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership and the cost is based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do if your key fob isn't working is to replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, Car Key Fob Replacement however as with any other device that spends most of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function when they age.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them at many auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside of them that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to open the doors. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset or an locksmith if you need.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car and require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it's got fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, since even one door left open could impact how well the fob operates.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.

This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate and requires special programming. This how.much is a replacement car key only possible at the dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to perform the job.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and whether they have an assurance on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to take 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 vehicle. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.

You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys, or a smart, electronic key. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll probably require an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's guides. The steps are somewhat difficult, however and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank addition to a smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or car key FOB replacement if the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.