Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you according to the model of your car.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. While this is a convenient feature, it can be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.
If you're able to buy 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. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car, and that most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock the car via the internet. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the same technology. If automotive car key replacement has a different type of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that can only be performed by a dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without the need for the traditional metal key. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a variety of automobiles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that customers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are utilized in most modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less money than you would pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.
Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps are a bit tricky, though you may require an additional key fob to expedite the process or even complete it all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work 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 get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob may require a professional to program however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
For those with German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.