Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges based on your vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing to do is replace its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time, just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores and even at 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 if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors because even a door left open could influence how the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.
This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require specialized programming. This can only be done through the dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to your location to do the work.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and they may not offer the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob repaired, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. car key replacement 's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They're a great way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to your car's ignition. These are usually found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical keys.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay anything to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.
You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer, whether you have traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional replace it. However, it might not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still require an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.
Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be a bit tricky, though you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys, you can get one at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.
People who have German cars, for instance one, with the "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs use an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.