Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and begin your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership, which charges 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 need to do is replace its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however like any other device that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets they are prone to break when they age.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature, but it could be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.

If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an affordable price you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically 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 special 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 an upgrade, you might be in a position to program a replacement car keys with chips yourself. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually available online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, because even a door left open can affect how well the fob works.

To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car key replacement and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob in the same time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate and requires special programming. This is only possible by a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to complete the work at a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the work.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other locations and they may not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

Whether you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that's not associated with any specific car manufacturer. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, car key FOB replacement and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you will need to hire an expert to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of 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 went through the dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional 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, however, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob may need to be professionally programmed, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which is similar to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.