Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing to do is change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new-mobile car key replacement dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that will work with your car. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic car key replacement circuit board.

Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny 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 can be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an affordable price, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a much affordable alternative to paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and some require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the car remotely. If you lose yours or require an upgrade, you might be in a position to program a replacement key fobs for cars yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has new batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob functions.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in a time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob is 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 type of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be performed by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to do the work for a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They might even be able to your location to do the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other locations and they may not provide the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. They are typically found in an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. These are the most popular because they let you open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay anything to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, electronic car key replacement you can change it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll have to hire a professional to replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for Electronic car key replacement cars at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership employs.

Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's guides or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key that you can get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require a professional to program however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.

For those who have German cars, for instance those that come with a "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife, might only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only manufacturer with the necessary equipment to do so.