Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars have key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer and the cost is based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just unlock and lock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break when they age.

If you're lucky, your dealer will sell batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside of them that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful 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 in order to operate the doors. If you're having issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call an locksmith.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic car key replacement key fobs that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, since even one door left open could impact how well the fob operates.

To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob in a time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off and switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob or a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your location to perform the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and could save you lots 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 allow you to lock and unlock your car, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They are typically found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. They are the most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical key.

Many dealers overcharge key fob prices because they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different way.

If you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the newer Smart key replacement keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular auto manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement car key fobs keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the emergency car key replacement to unlock doors and start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's 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 could have the option of purchasing a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership employs.

Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be tricky and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.

If your car also has a traditional metal key you can purchase one at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob might need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacement.

Those with German cars, for instance, that have the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealership. The reason is that the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only company with the tools needed to do so.