The Main Issue With Car Key Fob Replacement And How You Can Solve It

Car Key Fob Replacement

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

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time, just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it could be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote car key replacement locking system that relies on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

If you can purchase an additional key fob at an affordable price you might be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your car remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, since even one door that is left open could impact how well the fob functions.

To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by cycling the locks, switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or has a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to do the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations and may not provide the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without having to use the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on a variety of automobiles. They're a great method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.

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

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.

You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific car replacement key manufacturer regardless of whether you have traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time the key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car has a traditional metal key you can purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, but this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only manufacturer with the necessary equipment to do so.