Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting a coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time, just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries that work with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. This is a great feature, but it can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip could be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock the car from a distance. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks, turning on the lights or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming only works for cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that is only performed by a dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to complete the task for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to do the job.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places, and they might not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a great way to unlock your car key replacement, but they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate 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 fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can also search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to hire a professional to replace it. But that might not be as costly as you think, especially when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.

Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is hit. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model and year, you might have the option to buy a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may need another key fob in order to complete the process. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car keys battery replacement near me is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key that you can make a spare at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional. However, this could be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.

People who own German cars, for example one, with a "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.