Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge you based on the make of the vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob stops working the first thing to do is change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any device that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function when they age.

If you're fortunate your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. This is a convenient feature, but it could be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.

If you're able to buy an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a much affordable alternative to paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that it has new batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, since even one door left open could influence how the fob functions.

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

Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate and requires specific programming. This is only available through a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith near me car key replacement instead. They have the equipment to complete the task for a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the work.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be enticed in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places and may not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. 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 car without using the traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on many vehicles. They are a great method to unlock your car replacement keys, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. They are the most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs 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 an affordable cost. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way.

If you have a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is pressed. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and car key FOB replacement expertise required to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's 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 the 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 doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's guides or online. The steps are quite difficult, however and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs prior to experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car has traditional metal keys, you can get a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional. However, this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key needs replacement.

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