Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and begin your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of the vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you need to do is change its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time as does any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically 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 of the newer 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 great feature, it could be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. 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 the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the same time frame generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.

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

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off calling an automotive locksmith near me car key replacement instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and if they offer a warranty on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships may charge more than other locations and may not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you lots of money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They're a great way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car keys replacement. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other types of emergency car key replacement key fobs include switchesblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car key Replacement price without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know that customers will pay anything to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.

Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it with an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular auto manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can even use a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you will need to find an expert to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is press. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you may be able to purchase a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's guides or online. These steps can be difficult and you may need an additional key fob to complete the process. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank addition to its smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional, however this could be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if your key requires replacement.

Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" that is similar to the switchblade, are only available from the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only company with the necessary equipment to do this.