Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car key replacement cost. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle.

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

Battery

The first thing to do in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any device that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets they are prone to break when they age.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer batteries for keys compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob and install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature but can be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

You may be able do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your car replacement key cost from a distance. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are cheap and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the function of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you want to add to the 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 an additional ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that is only performed by a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the job.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.

A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of vehicles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. These are usually located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car keys replacement cost fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay anything to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll have to hire an expert to replace the item. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you may be able to purchase an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or online. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob may require a professional to program however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip" which is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.