Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer who will charge based on the make of your car.

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, which have replaced traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break in time just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature, but it could be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.

If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at an affordable price you might be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at 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 equipped with electronic keys, which allow you to start and unlock the car keys replacement near me from a distance. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, usually about 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to the system.

This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is separate and requires specific programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however you may be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost car keys replacement fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be enticed in the event that you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to have them replaced. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They're a great way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and are able to cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can even use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, reprogrammed you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob has a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in car security at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's manuals or on the internet. The steps are somewhat difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.

If your car has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, which could be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" which is similar to a switchblade, can only be available from the dealer. The reason for this is that 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 tools needed to accomplish this.