Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and begin your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time as does any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer batteries for keys that work with your car. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car, and that most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. They are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. automotive key replacement 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 its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off, switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need specific programming. This is only available by the dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what their charges are and if they offer a warranty on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and may not offer the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on many automobiles. They're a great way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and are able to program and cut them for less than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is press. These codes aren't saved on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you could have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or online. The steps aren't easy and you may need a second 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 has traditional metal keys, you can get one at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require a professional to program however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip" which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. The reason is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only manufacturer with the tools needed to do so.