Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out 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 piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purse and pockets, they can stop working when they age.

If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to open the doors. If you're having issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement key at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your car via the internet. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you may be in a position to program a replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on your vehicle model, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the function of the fob.

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

This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different, it will need specialized programming. This is only available by the dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the job.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know about the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than a 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 the need for the traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and Car Key Fob Replacement unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to your car's ignition. These are usually found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a reasonable mobile replacement car keys for a fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars, whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is press. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership employs.

Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's guides or online. These steps can be a bit tricky, though, Car Key Fob Replacement and you might need an additional key fob to expedite the process or even complete it all. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car key fob replacement also has a traditional metal key you can purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require professional programming however, which could be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.

For those with German automobiles, for instance one, with the "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only company with the necessary equipment to accomplish this.