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 the dealer who will charge according to the model of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take if your key fob isn't working is to replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break down over time, just like any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that work with your car. If they don't, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside of them that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset or a locksmith if needed.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car and require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you may be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door left open could impact how well the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob or an additional ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that is only performed by an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to come to your home to complete the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and they may not offer the best deal. There are several alternatives to get your key fob repaired, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and could save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. They are typically found in an auto parts store or a dealership. car key fob replacement of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay anything to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has some sort of smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.
Read Home Page are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each when 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 of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less money than you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs on their websites or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be a bit tricky, though you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key that you can purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob might require programming by a professional, but this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.
Those who have German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.