Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a unique sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time as does any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that will 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, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.
Some of the latest fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to program it. car key replacement are cheap and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, because even a door that is left open could affect how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to the system.
This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires specialized programming. This is only possible through a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost, but you might be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to get a replacement. However, car key replacement 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 dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are utilized in most modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time the key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you may have the option to buy the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, but this can be expensive when you need to create more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip", which is similar to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.