Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge based on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob stops working, the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly emitting an encoded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break down over time just like any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for repaired a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it's got fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need special programming. This can only be done at the dealer.

You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to perform the job.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob repaired, including 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 allows you to unlock and start your car without having to use the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement car key cost fob for an affordable cost. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

You can replace your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and can program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to hire an expert to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles to guard against theft. They function by sending a unique security code every 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 to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less money than you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.

Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's guides or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or repaired even complete it all. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose 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 shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob might require programming by a professional, however this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip", which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.