Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you according to the model of your car.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break into pieces over time as does any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from 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 fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it could be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.
If you're able to purchase an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the car remotely. If you lose yours or need a new one you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, because even a door left open can affect how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob in a time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks or turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need specialized programming. This is only possible at an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat price however you may be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to do the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical key.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.
You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or a remote start button.
Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you could have the option to buy a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. However, auto key replacement require an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps are quite difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car also has a traditional metal key you can purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob may need to be professionally programmed, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.
People with German cars, for example one, with a "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife could only find fob replacements at the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.