10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your car.

However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:

Battery

The first thing you should do if the key fob you have is not working is to change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do much more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out a coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to an inside car keys replacement cost receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break down over time, just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys that will work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. This is a great feature but can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to open the doors. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need 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 purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with it's possible to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact process depends on the model of your car however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it's got fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors since even one door left open can affect how well the fob functions.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks, switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is distinct and requires specialized programming. This can only be done by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your home to complete the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other locations and may not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you lots of money.

A car key fob is a piece of 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 that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now standard on a lot of vehicles. They're a great method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. They are popular because they let you unlock and start your car without a physical key.

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

If you own an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and they can program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

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

Smart keys are used in all modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. The codes are not stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this additional 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 through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less money than you would pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be somewhat difficult, Car key fob replacement however you may require a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may require programming by a professional. However, this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.