Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first thing to do when your key fob is not working is to replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting the coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time in your pockets and purse they may cease to function as they get older.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Certain newer fobs come with an electronic key inside them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.

If you're able to buy an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with it's possible to program the key yourself. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car key battery replacement and require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functioning 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 a predetermined time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that 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 a different type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that must be performed by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to do the job.

If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain an alternative. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and could save you lots of money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car replacement keys without using traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a lot of automobiles. They're a great way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.

You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and are able to cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you will need to find a professional to replace the item. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.

You might be able to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less than what you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may need another key fob in order to complete the process. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" that is similar to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.