Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and begin your car. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.

But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:

Battery

The first step to take when the key fob you have is not working is to replace the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly sending out an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however like any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time in your pockets and purse they may cease to function as they get older.

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

Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a much affordable alternative to paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and that many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which let you start and unlock the car remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you may be capable of programming a replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has new batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, as even one door car key FOB replacement left open can affect how well the fob functions.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, car key FOB replacement typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you want to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate and requires specialized programming. This is only available through an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They may even come to you to do the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places, and they might not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing 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 of technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that customers will pay for any service to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost of car key replacement replacement for a fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.

You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have traditional metal keys or a smart electronic key. They offer a broad selection of replacement keys, and can cut and program them at less than dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has an advanced feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Smart keys are found in all modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less money than the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. However, you'll likely still require a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership employs.

Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's manuals or online. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require professional programming, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.