12 Companies Leading The Way In Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically replacing a standard 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 when your key fob is not working is to change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however like any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys that work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside of them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a convenient feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

If you can purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and some require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the car from a distance. If you lose yours or need an upgrade, you might be capable of programming a replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got new batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an over-charged 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, turn off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need specialized programming. This can only be done through the dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able to your location to do the work.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have an assurance. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, when you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to get them replaced. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you 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 come with them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealers overcharge key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.

replacement auto key  can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys, or a smart, electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each when 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. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less than what the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key that you can get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional. However, this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.

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