Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership, which charges based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any device that spends most of its time in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they get older.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.

If you can purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car keys replacement cost and require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that let you 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 your vehicle model, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks or switching 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 your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need specialized programming. This is only available by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They may even come to you to do the work.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more than other locations and may not be the most affordable option. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your mobile car key replacement without using a traditional metal keys. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a lot of automobiles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. These are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.

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

If you own an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific cheap car key replacement near me manufacturer. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.

Smart keys are found in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less than what the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership employs.

Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's guides or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require professional programming, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

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