10 Things That Your Family Teach You About Car Key Fob Replacement

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Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start your car key replacement cost. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership that charges according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first thing to do if your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break down over time just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $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 modern fobs include an electronic key inside that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature, but it can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need a new one you may be able to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to include in your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only possible by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and can save you a lot of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and programming it in a different method.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and can cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll probably have to pay a professional to replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.

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

You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or online. These steps can be tricky and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car has a traditional key shank addition to its smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require a professional to program however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.

Those with German cars, for example one, with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to find replacement car keys fobs at the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.