Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars now use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you based on the make of the vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other device that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function as they age.

If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature, but it can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention 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 it is possible to purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. 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 that allow you to start and unlock your vehicle from a distance. If you lose yours or car key FOB replacement need an upgrade you might be in a position to program a replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has fresh batteries. They are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10-30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.

Be aware that this reprogramming method 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 special programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by hiring 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 have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the work.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any 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 might be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. Dealerships can charge more than other locations, and they might not provide the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car keys replacement cost or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They offer a broad selection of replacement keys, and they can program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to hire an expert to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with a smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for less money than you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps are a bit tricky, though you may require a second functional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase an extra key at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional. However, this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the tools needed to do so.