Car Key Fob Replacement

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

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

Battery

The first step to take in the event that your key fob isn't working is to change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do more than 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 within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it could be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement car keys with chips fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your vehicle from a distance. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be able to program a replacement car keys with chips yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your car's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that is only done by a dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the work at a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even inform you of the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be enticed when you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to get them replaced. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.

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

Many dealers overcharge key fob prices because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their car replacement key back. It can be difficult to find a replacement car keys fob for an affordable price. However you can save money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

You can change your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to find an expert to replace it. But it may not be as cheap as you think, especially if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.

Smart keys are found in all modern cars to guard against theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership employs.

Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

For those who own German cars, for instance those that come with a "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.