20 Trailblazers Leading The Way In Car Key Fob Replacement Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer and the cost is depending on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse, they can stop working as they age.

If you're fortunate your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.

If you can purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure you have new batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob works.

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 set time frame, usually about 10 to 30 minutes. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require specific programming. This can only be done by a dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost however, you may be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to do the work for a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the work.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships


If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without the need for the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They're a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer, whether you have traditional metal keys, or a smart, electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you will need to hire an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as costly as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.

Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles 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 rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you might be able to purchase an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may require a second key fob to complete the procedure. car replacement keys is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get one at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob may need to be professionally programmed however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.

For those with German cars, for example, that have the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason is that these fobs typically use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only company that has the tools needed to do so.