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12 Companies Are Leading The Way In Car Key Fob Replacement
Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer, which charges based on your vehicle's make.

But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:

Battery

The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break in time just like any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it could be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

If you're able to purchase an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with it's possible to do the programming yourself. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your car via the internet. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.

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 period, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that can only be performed by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. key replacements for cars have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships might charge more than other locations and they may not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and can save you a lot of money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now common on many vehicles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. These are usually located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay anything to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to find a professional to replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has a smart feature like automatic locking or remote start button.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model and year, you may have the option to buy 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 a dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.

Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's manuals or online. These steps can be difficult and you may require a second key fob to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key that you can get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob could need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.

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