Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you based 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 to do is replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however like any other gadget that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they get older.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys that will work with your car. If related 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. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with the new one.
Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually available online. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, be sure it has new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, because even a door left open could affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle uses different types of key fob or an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that must be performed by a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee however you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the work.
If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several other options for getting your key fob repaired, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using 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 became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They're a great method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most popular car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob has a smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are found in all modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you could be able to purchase an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.
Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be difficult and you may require another key fob to complete the process. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key that you can make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require a professional to program, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company that has the equipment necessary to do this.