Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally 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

The first thing to do in the event that your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any 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 replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside them 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 the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues getting your car replacement keys near me manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and some require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you might be able to program a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on your vehicle model, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has new batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, usually about 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.

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

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They often have the necessary equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good standing 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 could be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations, and they might not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and could 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 an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most popular car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. They can be located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without the need for a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge key fob prices because they know consumers will pay for anything to get their car replacement key near me back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However you can save cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can also use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.

Locksmiths

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

Smart keys are found in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but 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 key stuck in ignition dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you may have the option of purchasing a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll likely still require an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' guides or online. The steps are somewhat difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key that you can get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, but 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 cars with a "flip", which is similar to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.