Car Key Fob replacement car keys cost

A lot of cars today use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge according to the model of your vehicle.

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

Battery

The first step to take if your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or replaced unlocks it. Fobs can break into pieces over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and even 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. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Some modern fobs include tiny keys inside that you can pull out in the event that keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip could be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.

You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car and require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock the car remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you may be in a position to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have new batteries. These are cheap and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functionality of the fob.

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

This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob or an additional ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that is only done by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even be able to your location to do the job.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer an assurance. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see if it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, if you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other places and may not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and could save you money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter that 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 key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different method.

If you own a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to find a professional to replace the item. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is hit. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually 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 through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less money than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be quite difficult, however and you may need an additional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has a traditional metal key you can purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

Those who have German automobiles, for instance those that come with a "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife could only get replacement fobs from the dealer. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only company with the equipment necessary to accomplish this.