Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer, which charges according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first step to take when your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key car replacement fob batteries compatible with your car. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside 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 those with the tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob in a certain time period, car key FOB replacement usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to your car's system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different and requires specific programming. This is only available by the dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even come to you to do the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have an assurance. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of car key replacement of this service prior to when you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to have them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and might not provide the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for car key FOB replacement thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. These are usually found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys which house the metal key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. They are popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay anything to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

If you have 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 associated with any specific car manufacturer. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and can cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. It may not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob has some sort of smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security for less money than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be difficult and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car has a traditional metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost 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 if the key has to be replaced.

People with German cars, for instance those that come with a "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife could only find fob replacements at the dealership. The reason is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the equipment necessary to do so.