The Worst Advice We've Been Given About Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer and the cost is according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're 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 impervious to damage, however like any other device that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they get older.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer batteries for keys that work with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside them that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature, but it could be dangerous for people who tend to lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having trouble, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call a locksmith.

If you can purchase an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself.  car key replacement  is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock your vehicle from a distance. If you lose yours or need an upgrade, you might be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, as even one door left open can affect how well the fob operates.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, usually about 10 to 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 procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your car's system.

This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different and requires specific programming. This can only be done through the dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost however, you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to perform the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Check 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 might even let you know about 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 an alternative. Dealerships might charge more than other locations, and they might not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval 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 first introduced in the  late 90s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. These are usually located at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the correct battery and programming it in a different way.

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 associated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and they can program and cut them for less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob has a smart feature, like automatic locking or remote start.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still require a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.

Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the key was not lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require a professional to program however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

People with German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company that has the equipment necessary to do this.