Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges according to the vehicle's make.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any device that spends most of its time in your purse and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell batteries for keys that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for people who frequently lose 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 experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.
If you're able to buy an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and some require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, be sure you have new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door that is left open could impact how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be done by a dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however you may be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. auto car key replacement may even be able be at your location to complete the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. There are other options for getting your key fob repaired, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and could save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your car without using a traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm 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 great way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. They are typically located at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. They offer a broad selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can also use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you will need to engage a professional to replace it. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic.
Smart keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They work by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. These codes are not stored on the fob but rather, in an embedded chip which 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.
Based on the model of your car and year, you might have the option to buy a new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be difficult and you may need another key fob in order to complete the process. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.
If your car also has a traditional metal key you can purchase one at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed, however, which can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
Those who have German cars, for example one, with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife, could only find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the necessary equipment to accomplish this.