Car Key Fob Replacement

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

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you should do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time as does any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at many auto car key replacement near me parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others 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 with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or require an upgrade you may be in a position to program a replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, however the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, since even one door left open could influence how the fob functions.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob for a time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that must be performed by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a 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 guarantee on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement car key. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and can save you money.

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

The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They are typically located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement car key costs keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

Based on the model and year, you could be able to purchase the new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through a dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership employs.

Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs on their websites or in their owner's manuals. The steps are quite difficult, however, and you might need an additional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. This is why 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 also has a traditional metal key it is possible to purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key was not lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require a professional to program however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.

For those who have German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.