Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. 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

If your key fob stops working the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any gadget that spends the majority of its time in your purses and pockets they may cease to function as they age.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with the new car key replacement one.

Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside them that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door Car Key Fob Replacement or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the car via the internet. You might be able program 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 details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, since even one door left open can influence how the fob functions.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by cycling the locks and switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to the system.

This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob or has an additional ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that must be performed by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to complete the task for less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the work.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations and they may not offer the best deal. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your car without using the traditional metal key. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.

You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. These locations offer a wide selection of replacement keys, and can cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll need to hire an expert to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time the 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 additional layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or online. These steps can be tricky and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key that you can purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional, but this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacement.

Those with German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.