Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break down over time, just like any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or 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 one from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and that many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start 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 instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob in a certain time period typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires specific programming. This can only be done through an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however you may be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. vehicle key replacement have the equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations, and they might not be the most affordable option. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without having to use the traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They're a convenient method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay anything to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and start it. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you may have the option to buy 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. But, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or online. These steps can be difficult and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, which could be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
Those with German automobiles, for instance those that come with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife could only get replacement fobs from the dealership. The reason is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the tools needed to accomplish this.