Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.
If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a set 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 a new one.
Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside of them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be automotive key replacement that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle from a distance. 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. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure automotive key replacement is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. These are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the same time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however, you may be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the work.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership for an alternative. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for the traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on many vehicles. They are a great way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. These are usually found in an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather 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 dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' guides or online. The steps aren't easy 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 before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key it is possible to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob may 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.
Those who have German automobiles, for instance one, with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife could only find fob replacements at the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.