9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Car Key Fob Replacement

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Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge based on the make of the 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 change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock your car replacement key. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement key for car cost keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If they don't, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost of a replacement car key between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with the new one.

Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having trouble getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than buying a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car key replacements, and that most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require to replace it, you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. These are cheap and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you wish to add to the system.

This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different, it will need specialized programming. This is only available through an authorized dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat price however, you may be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the job.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and if they offer an assurance on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be enticed in the event that you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other locations and they may not provide the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically cheaper than a dealership and could save you a lot of money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without having to use the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now standard on many vehicles. They are a convenient method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most popular car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. They can be located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. These are the most popular because they let you open and start your car without the need for a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

If you own a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that's not associated with any specific car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, especially if the key fob includes an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model and year, you may have the option to buy a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's guides. The steps are quite difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if the key needs replacement.

People who have German cars, for example, that have a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only manufacturer with the equipment necessary to accomplish this.