3 Common Reasons Why Your Car Key Fob Replacement Isn t Working And How To Fix It

Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you according to the model of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob stops working the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do much more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break into pieces over time, just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote car key replacement-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you are having trouble getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

You may be able do 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. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact process depends on your vehicle model, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the function of the fob.

To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob in a time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate, it will need specialized programming. This is only available by the dealer.

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even be able to your location to perform the job.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, 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 are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without physical keys.

Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay anything to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement fob, local you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that's not associated with any specific car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide selection of replacement keys, and can program and cut them for less than dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.

Locksmiths

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

Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. These codes are not stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you could have the option to buy the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be a bit tricky, though, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its 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 as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, which could be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

Those with German cars, for example one, with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement keys for car fobs from the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.