The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Car Key Fob Replacement

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Many cars now use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car key replacement price. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however like any other device that spends most of its time in your pockets and purse they may cease to function when they age.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the newer 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 useful feature, but it could be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your car replacement key cost and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to the system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming only works for cars which use the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is separate and requires specific programming. This is only possible at the dealer.

You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have an assurance. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain an alternative. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you lots of money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most commonly used type of car key button replacement key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be found at an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to unlock 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 needed to get their car back. Although it's difficult 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 your device.

You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you will need to engage an expert to replace it. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, especially when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start buttons.

Smart keys are found in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what the cost you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key it is possible to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob may require a professional to program, however, which can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip", which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.