Car Key Fob Replacement

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

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

Battery

The first thing you should do in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break in time just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys that will work with your car. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it could be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues getting your car key cover replacement key fob for car (describes it) manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for a replacement key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all replacement keys for car keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or need a new one, you might be able to program an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob for a time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has 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 offer this service for a flat cost however you may be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your location to perform the job.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good 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 may be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement keys for car. Dealerships can charge more than other places and they may not offer the best deal. 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 could save you money.

A car key replacement online key fob allows 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 set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. They can be located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge key fob prices because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

If you own a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. These locations offer a wide selection of replacement keys, and can cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you will need to find an expert to replace it. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, especially if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or a remote start button.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

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

Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's guides or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need another key fob that is functional to expedite the process or even to complete it all. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car also has a traditional metal key it is possible to purchase one at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require professional programming, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" that functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.