Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership, which charges according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting the coded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time in your purses and pockets they may cease to function as they get older.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement keys car that work with your car. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at 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 need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Some modern fobs include tiny keys inside that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip could 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 buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or require to replace it, you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key turn off your car key replacement cost and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off and switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to include in your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob or a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that must be performed by a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however, you may be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the work.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to get them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and might not provide the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.

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

You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be difficult and you may need a second key fob to complete the process. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car also has a traditional metal key you can purchase an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob may require a professional to program however, which could be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip", which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.