Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge based on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working, the first thing to do is change its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do much more than unlock and lock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time as does any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. This is a useful feature but can be dangerous for people who tend to lose their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're experiencing issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement key at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, that allow you to start and unlock your car via the internet. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that it's got new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob in a time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you would like to add to your car's system.

This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that is only done by an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however you may be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, if you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places and they may not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.

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

The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement remote car Keys 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 at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and are able to cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can even use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to hire a professional to replace the item. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, like automatic locking or remote start.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would 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.

Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's guides or copyoa.com online. These steps can be difficult and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.

For those with German cars, for example, that have the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.