Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you depending on the make of your car.

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

Battery

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

If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need 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 have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're experiencing issues, contact your car manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

If you can purchase an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the car remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. These are cheap and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the exact same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different and requires specialized programming. This is only possible at a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to your location to perform the work.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys, near to visit a dealership to have them replaced. However, they usually 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 stores are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you lots of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now standard on a variety of vehicles. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of car key replacement of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and they can program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can search the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or a remote start button.

Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time the key is pressed. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and start it. Due to this additional layer of security, Near it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

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

Certain automakers offer instructions on self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob to complete the process. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key that you can purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.

People who own German cars, for instance, that have the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife, may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.