Car Key Fob mobile replacement car keys

A lot of cars today use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you based on the make of the vehicle.

But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first step to take in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside them that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it can be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

You might be able to do the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and some require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which let you start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors because even a door left open can influence how the fob works.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within the same time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks and switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car 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 a dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to complete the work at a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to do the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be enticed when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several other options for cost of Replacement car key getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They're a great method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. These are usually found at an auto parts store or dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most popular because they let you open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay anything to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.

You can replace your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has a smart feature like automatic locking or remote start buttons.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is press. 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 start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less money than you would pay if you went through the dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership employs.

Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be difficult and you may need another key fob in order to complete the procedure. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob may require professional programming however, which could increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

People who have German cars, for instance, that have a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. The reason is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is typically the only company that has the equipment necessary to do so.