Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and begin your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer that charges according to the vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working, the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break in time, just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. key replacement car 'll need to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which let you start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or need a new one you might be capable of programming the replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure you have new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, since even one door left open could affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to include in your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require specialized programming. This can only be done through a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealer to get them replaced. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced, 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 of technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s, and many 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 take it.
The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. They are typically located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your car without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
If you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to find an expert to replace it. But it may not be as cheap as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you may have the option of purchasing a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be difficult and you may need an additional key fob in order to complete the process. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key you can purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip", which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.