Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership and the cost is according to the vehicle's make.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when your key fob is not working is to replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break when they age.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that work with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob, and then 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 when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.
If you're able to purchase an additional key fob at an affordable price, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock the car remotely. If you lose yours or require an upgrade you may be able to program a replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are cheap and easy to replace. However, the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you would like to add to the system.
This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that must be performed by a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price however you may be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the work.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If car key replacement near me in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without having to use a traditional metal key. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on many automobiles. They're a convenient way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
If you own a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can change it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to pay a professional to replace it. But that might not be as cheap as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with a smart feature like automatic locking or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you may have the option to buy the new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's guides or online. The steps aren't easy and you may need an additional key fob to complete the process. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get one at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in 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 if the key needs to be replaced.
People who own German cars, for example one, with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.