Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break in time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have batteries for keys that will work with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain of the more recent fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an affordable price it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and some require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors as even one door that is left open could influence how the fob works.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob in a certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob or an ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that is only performed by a dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat price however you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to come to your home to complete the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives 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 fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They're a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal your car key replacements (look at more info).

The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car replacement key cost fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to hire an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as expensive as you think, especially when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or a remote start button.

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

Based on the model of your car and year, you might have the option to buy the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and car key replacements you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the process. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase one at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost in the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if the key needs replacement.

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