Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer and the cost is according to the vehicle's make.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do if your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting an encoded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car and most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that you have fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, because even a door that is left open could impact how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in a 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 signal as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob or an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat price, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to do the work for a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They may even come to you to do the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, if you lose your keys to visit a dealer to have them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you a lot of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. These are usually found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. car keys replacement cost of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can also search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to hire an expert to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you may have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's guides or online. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require professional programming however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.
People with German cars, for example those that come with a "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife, might only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealer. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.