Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges according to the vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other device that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function as they get older.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer batteries for keys that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary 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.
Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some use 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 with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it you may be able to program a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on your vehicle model, but instructions are often available online. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob in the same time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your car has an alternative type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the 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 job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they have an assurance. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed if you lose your keys to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations and they may not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your car without having to use the traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a variety of automobiles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. types of car keys can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find a professional to replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.
Smart keys are utilized in most modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less money than you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may need an additional key fob in order to complete the process. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key that you can get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be expensive when you need to create more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
For those who have German cars, for instance those that come with a "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife could only find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs use an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.