Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing to do is replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other device that spends most of its time in your purse and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.
If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them in 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 pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully 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 in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it could be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
If car key replacement to buy a replacement key fob at an affordable price, you may be able to program it yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and that many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle from a distance. If you lose yours or need to replace it, you might be able to program the replacement yourself. The exact process depends on your vehicle model however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob or an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that is only done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know about the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and may not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They are a great way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. While it's not easy 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 the device.
You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars, whether you have traditional metal keys or a smart electronic key. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can use an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to find a professional to replace the item. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob is equipped with an advanced feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be a bit tricky, though you may require an additional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob might need to be programmed by a professional, however this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip", which is similar to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason is that these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the equipment necessary to accomplish this.