Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer and the cost is depending on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing you need to do is change its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break down over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have batteries for keys that will work with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even 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 need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the car from a distance. If you lose yours or require a new one you may be capable of programming an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the function of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10-30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks, turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to your car's system.

This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Also, check your new-car key button replacement warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, if you lose your keys to visit a dealer to get them replaced. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and can save you lots of money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without having to use a traditional metal key. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your car without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

If you own a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and can program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

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

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Certain automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be a bit tricky, though, and you might need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even complete it all. It is advisable for both the 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 purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs use an electronic car key replacement transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.