Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars now use key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership and the cost is according to the vehicle's make.

However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time as does any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.

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

Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors since even one door left open can influence how the fob operates.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car key replacement cost uses a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is different, it will need specific programming. This is only available through a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to do the work for less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to do the job.

If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now standard on many vehicles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

Whether you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. A lot of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to hire an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as costly as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

Based on the model and year, you could have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through a dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may need another key fob to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this could be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key needs replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip", which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.