Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars now use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership that charges according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however as with any other gadget that spends the majority of its time in your pockets and purse, they can stop working as they age.

If you're lucky, your new cheapest car key replacement dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.

Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you are having trouble getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

If you can purchase a replacement key replacement for car fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic keys, that allow you to start and unlock your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you might be capable of programming the replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that you have new batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors since even one door that is left open could influence how the fob works.

To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different, it will need specialized programming. This is only possible by a dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, if you lose your keys to visit a dealer to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other locations and may not be the most affordable option. There are alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay anything to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.

You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car replacement key manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you will need to find a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is hit. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car key lost replacement in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you might have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith car key replacement cost that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or online. These steps can be tricky and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key that you can get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional. However, this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key needs replacement.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip", which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the necessary equipment to do this.