Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and Car Key Fob Replacement unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge based on the make of your car.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do if your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break down over time just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $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 and replace it with a new one.

Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it can be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying a replacement key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock your car remotely. If you lose yours or require an upgrade, you might be in a position to program a replacement key for car yourself. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, usually about 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to include in your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need special programming. This is only possible by a dealer.

You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They typically have the equipment to do the job 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 choose to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and whether they have an assurance on the work. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to have them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and they may not offer the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.

A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of automobiles. They're a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to open and start your car without physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. They have a wide range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them at less than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace the item. But it may not be as expensive as you think, especially when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is hit. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you may be able to purchase the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional 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 manuals or online. These steps can be a bit tricky, though, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require professional programming, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip", which is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is that these fobs typically use 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 equipment necessary to do so.