Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer and the cost is depending on the make of your 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 is not working is to change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. automotive key replacement 'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside of them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset or an locksmith if you need.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to do the programming yourself. This is typically a much affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle and require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors as even one door that is left open could impact how well the fob works.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you would like to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob or has a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that is only performed by a dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know about the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and could save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a lot of automobiles. They are a convenient method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. These are usually located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. They offer a broad selection of replacement keys, and are able to program and cut them for less than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with an advanced 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 pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security for less money than the cost you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. But, you'll most likely require an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.
Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the process. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.
If your car is equipped with 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 in the event that the metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip" that functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. The reason is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the necessary equipment to do this.