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Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer and the cost of a replacement car key is based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do when your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any gadget that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break as they get older.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys that will work with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature, but it could be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.

You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement fob at the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or need a new one you might be capable of programming the replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it's got new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the function of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different and requires special programming. This can only be done at the dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee however you may be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to do the work for less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have an assurance on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they 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 a replacement. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now standard on many vehicles. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. They can be found in an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and can cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with 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 time a button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.

You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for less than what the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may need another key fob to complete the procedure. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional, however this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacement.

People with German automobiles, for instance, that have the "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealer. The reason is that the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company with the tools needed to do this.