Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership and the cost is based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break in time, just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your pockets or purse.

If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside them that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

If you're able to buy an additional key fob at an affordable price, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an additional key from 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

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require a new one you might be capable of programming the replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in the same time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, switching on the lights, or car key FOB replacement emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.

This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize 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 the dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able to your location to do the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. These are usually located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic, and Car Key Fob Replacement keyless entry fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs as they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys or a smart electronic key. They offer a broad range of replacement car keys near me keys and are able to cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. However, it might not be as cheap car key replacement as you think, especially when the key fob has a smart feature like automatic locking or remote start button.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's guides or online. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however you may require a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, which could increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.

Those who have German cars, for example one, with a "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.