A Provocative Rant About Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do if your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a specific sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other gadget that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function when they age.

If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Some modern fobs include tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out in the event that keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a convenient feature, it can be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you are having trouble getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

If you can purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which let you start and unlock the car remotely. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure you have new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob for a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.

This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires specialized programming. This is only available at a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They often have the necessary equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to your location to perform the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement car key cost. Dealerships may charge more than other locations and they may not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional metal key. It's typically an oval or mobile replacement car keys rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on many automobiles. They are a great way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. They are typically located at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.

If you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. These locations offer a wide selection of mobile replacement car Keys keys, and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find an expert to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security at a lower cost than you would pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be tricky and you may require another key fob to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if the key needs replacement.

Those who own German automobiles, for instance those that come with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife might 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 at the service department of the dealer.