Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These tiny 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 the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a specific sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any device that spends most of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they age.
If you're lucky your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. This is a great feature, but it could be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and some require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle from a distance. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has new batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close 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 out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle uses different types of key fob or has a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee, but you might be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They typically have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. automotive car key replacement might even be able to travel to your home to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, when you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other locations and may not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or a remote start button.
Smart keys are utilized in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time the key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less money than you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's guides or online. The steps are somewhat difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even to complete it all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key that you can get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may require programming by a professional. However, this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.
Those with German cars, for example, that have the "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife, could only find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the equipment necessary to do so.