A Relevant Rant About Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle.

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

Battery

The first thing to do in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to replace the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any device that spends most of its time scurrying 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 batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside of them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a convenient feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an affordable price you might be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car and require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are cheap and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.

This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need specific programming. This is only possible at the dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to your home to complete the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know about the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to have them replaced. However, near dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and might not provide the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you a lot of money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now standard on a variety 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 common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of replacement car keys of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay anything to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement car key cost fob at an affordable cost. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars, whether you have a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or a remote start button.

Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

Based on the model and year, you could have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or online. These steps can be tricky and you may need an additional key fob in order to complete the process. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to the smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key needs replacement.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the necessary equipment to do this.