Solutions To Problems With Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do if your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break into pieces over time as does any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside of them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your cheap car keys replacement manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with it's possible to program the key yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need a new one, you might be in a position to program a replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the functionality 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 within a predetermined time frame, usually about 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that must be performed by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to your location to perform the job.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and might not provide the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. 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 traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. They are typically found in an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated 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 can program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you might be able to purchase an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost of replacement car keys through the dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership employs.

Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be difficult and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

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

Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" that is similar to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.