Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge based on the make of your car.

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

Battery

The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time in your purse and pockets they may cease to function as they age.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an affordable price you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the 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 that let you unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it you may be capable of programming an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for a time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your car's system.

This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your car has different types of key fob or an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that is only performed by a dealer.

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

If you decide to go to the dealership, car key FOB replacement inquire how much they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost car keys replacement cost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic cylinder, car key FOB replacement and keyless entry fobs. These are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to program and cut them for less than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to hire an expert to replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start button.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is press. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

Based on the model and year, you may be able to purchase the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.

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