Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge according to the model of your car.

But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first step to take when your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however like any other device that spends most of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets, they can stop working when they age.

If you're lucky your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start your engine. This is a useful feature, but it can be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call a locksmith.

If you can purchase an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need a new one you might be capable of programming the replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however instructions are typically accessible online. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, since even one door that is left open could influence how the fob operates.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your car's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has different types of key fob or has an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be performed by a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay anything to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the right replacement keys for cars battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith who is not associated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can use the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or a remote start button.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you could be able to purchase an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional 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 tricky and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the procedure. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.

If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob may require professional programming, however, which can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.

Those with German cars, for instance, that have the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife, could only get replacement fobs from the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only company that has the tools needed to accomplish this.