Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership, which 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 are replacing traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other gadget that spends most of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function when they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that work with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging see this page , you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying a replacement key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car and most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or require to replace it you may be in a position to program the replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors since even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in a time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars that use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require specialized programming. This can only be done through an authorized dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. Dealerships might charge more than other places and they may not provide the best price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob repaired, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know consumers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be quite difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key it is possible to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob might need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
People who have German cars, for example one, with the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.