Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer, which charges based on your vehicle's make.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell batteries for keys that work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature, but it can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues, contact your car manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
If you're able to buy an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require to replace it you might be able to program a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires special programming. This is only available by the dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to complete the task for a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your home to complete the job.
If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now common on many automobiles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.
auto car key replacement used type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to your car's ignition. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.
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 if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are utilized in the majority of modern vehicles to guard against theft. They function by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's manuals. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process or even complete it all. This is why 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 also has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require professional programming however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" which is similar to the switchblade, are only available from the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use a specific 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 necessary equipment to do so.