This Week's Best Stories About Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership and the cost is according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first step to take if your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break into pieces over time as does any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're experiencing issues, contact your car manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

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

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you might be able to program the replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it's got new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functioning 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 for a time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.

Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars which use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need specialized programming. This can only be done through the dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These are typically cheaper 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 using a traditional metal keys. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the  late 90s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. These 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 as they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. They have a wide range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you will need to engage an expert to replace it. However,  car replacement keys  might not be as cheap as you think, especially if the key fob includes a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is hit. The codes are not stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you might have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be a bit tricky, though and you may need another key fob that is functional to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional, but this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key needs replacement.

Those who have German automobiles, for instance those that come with the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.