13 Things About Car Key Fob Replacement You May Not Have Considered

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge you depending on the make of your car.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob isn't working is to replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly emitting the coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your pockets or purse.

If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it can be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to do the programming yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the vehicle from a distance. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you might be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. 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 program it. These are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, because even a door left open could affect how well the fob works.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10-30 minutes. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require special programming. This is only available by an authorized dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They usually have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your home to complete the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are typically cheaper than the dealership and can save you lots of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car keys replacement cost without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on many vehicles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. These are usually found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement key fobs for Cars battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and Replacement key fobs for Cars can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll likely still require an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key that you can get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, however this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.

Those with German cars, for instance one, with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealer. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only manufacturer with the tools needed to do so.