Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer and the cost is based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob stops working, the first thing you need to do is change its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any gadget that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function when they age.

If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Some modern fobs include tiny keys inside them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. This is a useful feature but can be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call an locksmith.

If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at an affordable price, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the function of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that 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 vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is separate, it will need specialized programming. This is only possible by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the job.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other places and they may not provide the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and could save you lots of money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's 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 popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They are a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most commonly used type of emergency car key replacement key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to your car's ignition. 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. They are sought-after because they permit you to open and start your cheap car keys replacement without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay anything to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the correct mobile replacement car keys battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can change it with an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

You might be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less than what you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's manuals or on the internet. The steps are a bit tricky, though you may require a second functional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car also has a traditional metal key, you can get a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key was not lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require a professional to program 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 have German automobiles, for instance one, with the "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.