10 Tell-Tale Signals You Need To Buy A Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you depending on the make of the vehicle.

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

Battery

The first step to take when the key fob you have is not working is to change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however as with any other gadget that spends the majority of its time in your purses and pockets they may cease to function when they age.

If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find 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. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to open the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an affordable price you might be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than buying a new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars keys replacement are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your car from a distance. If you lose yours or need to replace it you may be able to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10-30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your car's system.

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

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee however you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or car key battery Replacement near me-insurance policy to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car keys replacement without a traditional metal keys. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car keys replacements without physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.

Whether you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find a professional to replace the item. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or a remote start button.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is pressed. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this additional 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 may be able to purchase a new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions on self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase one at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, but this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" which is similar to a switchblade, can only be available from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.