Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your car.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do in the event that your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out a coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other device that spends most of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break as they age.
If you're lucky your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it can be dangerous for people who tend to lose their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours, or require to replace it you may be able to program a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on your vehicle model however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got new batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, because even a door that is left open could affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process 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 that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that must be performed by a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the work at less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, when you lose your keys to visit a dealer to get them replaced. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and can save you lots of money.
automotive key replacement lets you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that's not associated with any specific car manufacturer. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace the item. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with a smart feature like an automatic locking system or a remote start button.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' manuals or online. The steps are somewhat difficult, however, and you might need an additional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob may require a professional to program however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.
People who have German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company that has the equipment necessary to do this.