The 10 Most Scariest Things About Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and begin your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically 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 you should do in the event that your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break down over time as does any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that will work with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside of 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 an inclination to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car key fobs replacement's manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a much affordable alternative to paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and that many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which let you start and unlock your car via the internet. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, because even a door that is left open could influence how the fob operates.

To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative type of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that is only done by a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however you may be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what their charges are and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. However, dealerships typically cost of a replacement car key more than other locations for this service, and might not provide the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and could save you 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 let you lock and unlock your vehicle and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade 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 open and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay anything to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, especially when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or a remote start button.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

Based on the model and year, you might have the option to buy the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's manuals. The steps are quite difficult, however you may require a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob may require a professional to program, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.

For those with German cars keys replacement, for instance one, with a "flip" function, which how.much is a replacement car key akin to a switchblade knife might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.