Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob stops working the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These devices, replacement which have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time just like any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Some of the latest fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for those with the tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to open the doors. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a affordable alternative to paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functionality 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 on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.

Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need specialized programming. This is only possible at a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They may even come to you to do the job.

If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what their charges are and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places and they may not provide the best price. 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 lets you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most popular type of car key battery replacement near me key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement keys for cars fob for an affordable price. However you can save money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys or a smart electronic key. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can also use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you might have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go 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.

Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may require another 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 a smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, but this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacement.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip" that is similar to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.