Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of the vehicle.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do when the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break down over time as does any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that work with your car. If not, you can locate them at many auto parts stores and 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 one from your fob and install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. This is a convenient feature, but it can be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call a locksmith.

You might be able to do the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it's got new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, because even a door left open could impact how well the fob works.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob within a time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob or has an additional ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that must be done by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job.

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

Dealerships

You might be enticed, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other places and they may not offer the best deal. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on many vehicles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, g28 in which the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.

If you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and they can cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can search an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find a professional to replace the item. It might not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob has an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is hit. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge 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 car security at a lower cost than you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll probably require a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the process. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car has a traditional key shank addition to the smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key isn't lost as is 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 be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip" which is similar in function to the switchblade, g28 are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.