9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Car Key Fob Replacement

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Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and start your car. Typically, car key FOB replacement replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges according to the vehicle's make.

However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first thing to do in the event that your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just unlock and lock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that work with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car replacement keys. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with the tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call a locksmith.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, as even one door left open can impact how well the fob works.

To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.

This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost however, you may be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to complete the task for a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the work.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. These are usually found in an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without the need for a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have traditional metal keys, or a smart, electronic key. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can even use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll need to hire a professional to replace the item. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.

You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may require another key fob to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key was not lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which is similar to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.