Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time in your pockets and purse they are prone to break when they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside of them that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.
If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or require a new one you might be able to program a replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. automotive key replacement will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the function of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob for a time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different, it will need specialized programming. This can only be done at an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however you may be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your home to complete the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other places and they may not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you lots of 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 usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They're a great way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. These are usually found in an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service to get their car back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated 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 find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional to replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, especially when the key fob has a smart feature like an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. The 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 licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less than what the cost you would pay if 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 offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps are quite difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. 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 an old-fashioned metal key you can purchase one at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob might need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacement.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip", which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.