It's The Ugly Reality About Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

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

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

Battery

The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break down over time, just like any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers.  automotive key replacement 'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with the new one.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

If you can purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock your vehicle from a distance. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the function of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob for a time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your car's system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your car has different types of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that must be performed by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the work.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.

Dealerships

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

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of automobiles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without physical key.

Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. A lot of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll need to find an expert to replace the item. But it may not be as expensive as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start button.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

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

Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may need another key fob in order to complete the process. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys, you can get an extra key at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, but this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip", which functions in a similar way 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 service department of the dealer.