10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden To Help You Get Started With Car Key Fob Replacement

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and begin your car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer and the cost is according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.

If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully 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 in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call a locksmith.

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock your car via the internet. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. The exact process depends on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has new batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, because even a door that is left open could influence how the fob works.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car could respond by cycling the locks or turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure 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 car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different, it will need specific programming. This is only possible by the dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, when you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to get them replaced. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer 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 could save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of automobiles. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most commonly used type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. These are usually found at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.

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

You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can use the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, like automatic locking or remote start.

Smart keys are used in all modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.

Based on  cost of a replacement car key  of your car and year, you may have the option to buy a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may need another key fob in order to complete the process. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to a smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be professionally programmed, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.

For those who own German automobiles, for instance, that have a "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife could only find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.