Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge depending on the make of the vehicle.

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

Battery

The first thing to do if your key fob is not working is to change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break in time, just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.

If you're able to buy an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors since even one door left open could affect how well the fob works.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob for a certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you would like to add to your car's system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is distinct and requires specialized programming. This is only possible by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your home to complete the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you lots of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They're a convenient method of opening your emergency car key replacement near me but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide selection of replacement keys, and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can even use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll probably have to pay a professional to replace it. However, it 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 a remote start button.

Smart keys are used in all modern cars to guard against theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

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

Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's manuals. The steps are quite difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key that you can purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price in the event that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may require programming by a professional. However, this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.

People who have German automobiles, for instance, that have a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.