9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars now use key fobs that can 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 depending on the make of the vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob stops working, the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time just like any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they're available at auto car key replacement near me parts stores or even 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. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start your engine. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see if 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 a price you're comfortable with it's possible to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. But, be aware that not all replacement car key keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or require an upgrade, you might be in a position to program the replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on your vehicle model, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it's got new batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems 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 off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks and switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee however, you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to complete the task for less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost of car key replacement and if they provide an assurance. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about 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 to obtain a replacement. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most popular type of car key fob replacement key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer, whether you have traditional metal keys or a smart electronic key. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you will need to hire an expert to replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start buttons.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you may have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be a bit tricky, though and you may need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even to complete it all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require a professional to program, 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 with the "flip" which is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.