13 Things About Car Key Fob Replacement You May Not Have Known

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.

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, can do a lot more than just unlock and lock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time, just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.

Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature but can be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset or an locksmith if you need.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact process depends on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you wish to add to the system.

This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses different types of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that is only done by a dealer.


You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to do the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more than other places and may not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and can save you a lot of money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They're a great way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most commonly used type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by selecting the correct 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 particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys or a smart electronic key. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and start it. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you may have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll probably require a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' manuals or online. G28 Car Keys can be difficult and you may require an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the frustration of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require professional programming however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.

Those with German cars, for instance one, with the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife could only get replacement fobs from the dealer. The reason is that the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the equipment necessary to accomplish this.

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Pub: 11 Sep 2024 10:33 UTC
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