Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and begin your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your car.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do if your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any gadget that spends most of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets, they can stop working when they age.

If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys for car keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature but can be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.

If you're able to buy an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock your car remotely. If you lose yours, or require to replace it you may be capable of programming an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, be sure you have fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you wish to add to your car's system.

This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires specific programming. This is only available by the dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however you may be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the work.

If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to get a replacement. Dealerships might charge more than other locations, and they might not provide the best price. There are other options for getting your key fob repaired, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without having to use the traditional metal key. 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 were first popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.

If you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any specific car manufacturer. A lot of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are found in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for Car Key Fob Replacement less than what you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be difficult and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key you can purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key was not lost with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.

For those who have German cars, for instance, that have the "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.