9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership that charges according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first step to take in the event that your key fob isn't working is to change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break down over time, just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues with your emergency car key replacement, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which let you start and unlock your car via the internet. If you lose yours or need to replace it you may be capable of programming a replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the function of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks and switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need specific programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to do the work.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other locations, and they might not offer the best deal. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you lots of money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car key fob replacement near me without the need for the traditional metal key. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now common on a lot of automobiles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most commonly used type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. These are usually located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. But that might not be as costly as you think, especially when the key fob has a smart feature like automatic locking or remote start button.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

Based on the model 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 it would cost through the dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be a bit tricky, though and you may need an additional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car has a traditional metal key you can purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the key was not lost in the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob might need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacing.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" which is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available from the dealer. The reason is that these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the tools needed to do so.