Car Key Fob Replacement

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

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

Battery

If your key fob stops working, the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other gadget that spends most of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function as they get older.

If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Certain of the more recent fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset or an locksmith if you need.

You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock your car via the internet. If you lose yours, or require a new one you may be in a position to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is separate and requires special programming. This is only available by the dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however, you may be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to complete the task for less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any lost car key replacement fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other locations, and they might not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s, and many vehicles include 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 connected to the ignition in your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith near me car key replacement who is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can even use a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to hire an expert to replace the item. However, it might not be as cheap car keys replacement as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.

Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost for replacement car key than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be difficult and you may require an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car also has a traditional metal key, you can get a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key was not lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob may require professional programming, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip", which is similar to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the equipment necessary to do this.