Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working, the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time as does any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob before installing the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the latest fobs have a small 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 could be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require a new one, you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car, but instructions are often accessible online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are cheap and easy to replace. However, the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to complete the task for a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to do the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and might not provide the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.
car key replacements allows you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They're a great way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to find a professional to replace the item. But that might not be as cheap as you think, particularly when the key fob has a smart feature like an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you may have the option of purchasing a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be a bit tricky, though you may require another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car also has a traditional metal key you can purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with 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 automobiles that feature a "flip", which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason is that these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only manufacturer with the necessary equipment to do this.