Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing you need to do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting a coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function as they age.

If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys for cars batteries for keys fobs that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob in order 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 call an expert locksmith.

If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an affordable price you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

The majority of modern cars keys replacement are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, be sure it has fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the function of the fob.

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

This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only possible through a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. They may even come to you to do the job.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and might not provide the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for the traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as automatic locking or a remote start button.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when 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 also start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model and year, you could have the option of purchasing the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. The steps are a bit tricky, though and car key FOB replacement you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even complete it all. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.

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