Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your vehicle.

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

Battery

The first step to take if the key fob you have is not working is to change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other gadget that spends most of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they get older.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.

Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside that you can pull out in the event that keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. This is a useful feature but can be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call a locksmith.

If you can purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for a replacement key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it, you might be in a position to program a replacement car key yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it's got fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, Replacement Keys Car an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.

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

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only available by an authorized dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the job.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, if you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other places and they may not be the most affordable option. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on many vehicles. They're a great method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. These are usually located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.

You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob has some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are found in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you might have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's guides. The steps are somewhat difficult, however you may require a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even complete it all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car also has a traditional metal key, you can get a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key was not lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob may require professional programming, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.

Those with German cars, for example one, with a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.