Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars have key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment at the dealership that 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 stops working the first thing to do is change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break into pieces over time as does any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement compatible with your car. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to see if the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.

You may be able do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement fob at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you may be able to program a replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it's got fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, as even one door that is left open could influence how the fob works.

To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car might respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your car has an alternative type of key fob or an additional ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that is only done by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They typically have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car keys replacements to determine whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain an alternative. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and may not offer the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you a lot of money.

A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.

If you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and car Key fob replacement program them for much less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to hire an expert to replace the item. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob has some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you may 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 through a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers offer instructions on self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may require another key fob in order to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require professional programming, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.

People with German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife, might only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.