Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars have key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break in time just like any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain newer fobs come with an electronic key inside of them that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

If you're able to buy an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket 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. If you lose yours or need to replace it, you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob works.

To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks and switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob or has a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They may even come to you to do the job.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know 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 for an alternative. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and can save you a lot of money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without the need for the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a lot of automobiles. They're a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock 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 get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you have traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement key fob for car keys and Car Key Fob Replacement are able to program and Car Key Fob Replacement cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you will need to find an expert to replace it. But that might not be as cheap as you think, especially if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is hit. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in car security for less money than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership employs.

Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the process. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.

If your car has a traditional metal key you can purchase a spare 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 could add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

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