Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and start your car key replacement online. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge according to the model of the vehicle.

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

Battery

The first step to take in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them at 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 one from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some modern fobs include tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature but can be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

If you can purchase an extra key fob for an affordable price it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours, or require to replace it, you might be in a position to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob operates.

To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you wish to add to the system.

This reprogramming method only works on cars that 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 specialized programming that must be done by a dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost however, you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to do the work for a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and might not provide the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most commonly used type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can search an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find an expert to replace the item. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, like remote start or Car Key Fob Replacement locking that is automatic.

Smart keys are found in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less money than you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or online. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional, but this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacement.

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