Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first step to take if the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do a lot more than just unlock and lock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time in your purses and pockets, they can stop working when they age.

If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain of the more recent fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it could be risky for those with the tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be in a position to program the replacement yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car, but instructions are often accessible online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are affordable and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires specific programming. This is only available by the dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to do the work for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to do the job.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations and may not offer the best deal. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your car without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be found at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car replacement key fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable mobile replacement car Keys for a fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and they can program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.

You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for less than what you would pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key it is possible to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if your key requires replacement keys car.

People who own German cars, for example those that come with a "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife, could only find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.