Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and begin your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge according to the model of your vehicle.

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

Battery

The first thing to do when your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break as they age.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start the engine. This is a great feature but can be risky for those 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 are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a affordable alternative to paying for a replacement key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your car from a distance. If you lose yours or need to replace it you may be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, be sure it has fresh batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, since even one door left open could impact how well the fob functions.

To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob in a time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your car's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your car has an alternative type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that is only done by a dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price however you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They usually have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for keys your car to determine whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost for replacement car key of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and may not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without having to use a traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has 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 many automobiles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However you can save cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith that 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. But it may not be as expensive as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.

Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security for less than what you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.

Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps are quite difficult, however you may require a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys, you can get one at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require a professional to program, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available from the dealer. This is because these fobs use an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.